Elder and Vulnerable Adult Abuse Awareness Month.
The passage of ACR 98 serves to amplify state-level awareness of the issues surrounding elder abuse and its implications for vulnerable populations. By officially designating a month for awareness, the resolution aims to mobilize both citizens and community organizations to take action against the various forms of abuse faced by vulnerable adults. This acknowledgment is expected to encourage broader discussions on the need for better reporting systems, enhanced protections for victims, and the necessity for public services to be adequately informed and available to help those in need.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 98 (ACR 98), authored by Kalra, recognizes June 2017 as Elder and Vulnerable Adult Abuse Awareness Month in California. The resolution highlights the serious issue of elder and vulnerable adult abuse, emphasizing the significant presence of abuse cases and the alarming statistics surrounding it, such as the prevalence of abuse among the elderly population and the challenges in reporting these incidents. It advocates for heightened awareness and education concerning the signs, effects, and prevention measures for elder abuse, thereby fostering a more informed public able to combat this ongoing crisis.
The sentiment surrounding ACR 98 is largely supportive, with praise for its intentions to raise awareness and tackle the critical issue of elder abuse. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding the adequacy of current reporting systems and protections in place, which the resolution seeks to address. Advocates for elderly rights view the bill positively, believing that increasing awareness can lead to societal shifts regarding the treatment and support of older adults. On the other hand, there exists a critical sentiment regarding the need for tangible actions to follow this proclamation to effect real change.
While ACR 98 aims at fostering understanding and recognition of elder abuse, there is an ongoing concern about the effectiveness of merely designating a month for awareness without accompanying measures. Critics often highlight the gap between recognition and action, urging for more robust policies and programs directed at the prevention and management of elder abuse. There are calls for increased funding and resources for protective services, as well as the establishment of better data collection methods on elder abuse cases to ensure that the challenges faced by this demographic are adequately addressed.