ELDER RIGHTS

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Protecting the rights of older adults and preventing their exploitation, abuse and neglect is critical. Programs are in place in Northeast Tennessee to assist seniors in exercising their rights, to help secure benefits to which they are entitled, and to work to protect them from abuse and exploitation.

FTAAAD offers several of these programs in house, including the Ombudsman program, public guardian program, CREVAA, elder abuse awareness and prevention, and legal services. Other services are available through referrals.

LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY RESIDENTS—QUESTIONS OR COMPLAINTS

This program provides assistance to elderly Tennesseans residing in nursing homes, homes for the aged, and assisted-care living facilities. The Ombudsman is available to help residents and their families resolve questions or problems and will advocate for solutions to problems for qualified residents of long-term care facilities.

CLICK HERE to learn more.

PUBLIC GUARDIANSHIP

The Tennessee Public Guardianship for the Elderly program ensures the health and welfare of some of the state’s most vulnerable residents by serving as the court-appointed guardian for individuals age 60 and over who, due to physical or mental limitations, are unable to make personal decisions regarding their health and financial resources. CLICK HERE to learn more.

SHORT-TERM ASSISTANCE FOR ELDERLY VICTIMS OF CRIME

The Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability (TCAD), in conjunction with the Area Agencies on Aging and Disability (AAADs) will develop and implement the Collaborative Response to Elder and Vulnerable Adult Abuse (CREVAA) program in Tennessee. The CREVAA Program will address the un-met needs arising as a result of a crime, of elder and vulnerable adult victims of crime by providing local advocates in each AAAD area who will ensure the provision of direct services to victims. CLICK HERE to learn more.

ELDER ABUSE PREVENTION AND EDUCATION

Physical abuse, neglect, emotional or psychological abuse, financial abuse and exploitation, sexual abuse, and abandonment are all considered to be forms of elder abuse. In many states, self-neglect is also considered mistreatment. CLICK HERE to learn more.

LEGAL SERVICES

Across 26 counties — from Chattanooga to the Tri Cities — Legal Aid of East Tennessee provides civil legal representation free of charge for those who need it most. The elderly. Victims of domestic violence. Low-income families. All those who face a legal challenge yet don’t have the vital legal help they need. CLICK HERE to learn more.

Elder Rights