Addabbo: Let’s Minimize Elder Abuse Before It Is Too Late

Bill Passes Senate; Mandates Domestic Violence Prevention Programs in Senior Centers 

Queens, NY, June 6, 2011 –  NYS Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr., (D-Queens) a member of the Senate’s Committee on the Aging, announced a measure that recently passed the Senate with unanimous support.  Bill S.4235, if enacted into law, would direct the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence to develop domestic violence prevention programs for utilization by senior centers throughout the state.  The bill would amend the executive law to incorporate this new vital requirement for senior citizens. 

Senator Addabbo praised the intent of the bill and called on the Assembly to take further action on moving the bill.  “It is important to remain both mindful and aware of the occurrences of domestic violence among seniors.  A well informed and educated senior versed on prevention methods can save such an older adult’s life and reduce the risk of tragedy.”  Addabbo pointed to senior centers as gathering places for many seniors in the community, and felt it was a logical place for domestic violence prevention programs to be offered.   

Although domestic violence prevention programs are in existence, few if any meet the needs of our older adults.  “Far too often, seniors are reluctant to seek help when it comes to sensitive issues.  Establishing and promoting domestic violence prevention programs at senior centers is ideal,” stated Addabbo. 

Should the legislation advance and pass the Assembly, the Governor will have 10 days to deliberate if the bill should become law.  If the bill is enacted, it takes effect immediately.   

Addabbo concluded, “I am hopeful this bill will reduce the growing problem of elder abuse in New York and improve the protection of seniors against domestic violence abusers.”