Promoting Alzheimer's Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I am glad that today the House is considering the Promoting Alzheimer's Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act, which I introduced with fellow Judiciary Committee member Representative Ted Deutch.

Elder abuse, which includes financial fraud, physical abuse, and neglect affects at least 10 percent of senior citizens each year. Seniors living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia are especially vulnerable to elder abuse.

It is estimated that up to 50 percent of these individuals fall prey to fraud, exploitation, and other harm. Often seniors suffering from these conditions have a harder time communicating with first responders and other professionals, which, in turn, makes it harder to provide help.

H.R. 6813 will help Americans struggling with Alzheimer's and dementia by equipping first responders and caregivers with essential tools to prevent and respond to incidents of elder abuse. Specifically, this legislation directs the Department of Justice to develop best practices for assisting professionals, including law enforcement, emergency personnel, and medical professionals who encounter and support people living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

I continue to hear from seniors in southwestern Pennsylvania about the strain COVID-19 has placed on their lives and the prevalence of virus-related scams. I hope this bill will alleviate some of those burdens.

Again, I thank my colleague, Representative Ted Deutch, for working with me to help stop elder abuse and to protect our Nation's seniors. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.
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Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I just wanted to again reiterate what an honor it was to work with my friend and colleague, Representative Ted Deutch, on this important piece of legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I once again urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 6813, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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