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Advocacy in Action (June 2024): Recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Libby Hastings • June 21, 2024

June 15th is recognized globally as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a crucial time to shed light on the often-hidden issue of elder abuse. Alarming statistics reveal that 1 in 10 older adults experience some form of abuse, neglect, or exploitation each year. As a community dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of older adults, it's essential to highlight the work being done and the ongoing challenges we face.


From July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, the Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation (ANE) Unit tracked over 6,800 referrals to law enforcement agencies statewide—a significant 16 percent increase from the previous fiscal year. These referrals, originating from the Department for Children and Families (DCF), Adult Protective Services (APS), the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS), and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), highlight the severity and prevalence of abuse in our communities. "Financial exploitation" remains the most reported allegation.


The Economic Crimes Unit, previously known as the Fraud and Abuse Litigation Division, played a pivotal role in addressing these issues. In the past fiscal year, they litigated 15 cases of elder and dependent adult abuse, resulting in over $625,000 in restitution. Additionally, they investigated 40 cases, reflecting their commitment to combating financial exploitation and securing justice for victims.


The Kansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman's annual report paints a troubling picture. Ombudsmen documented 120 complaints of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including physical assaults, verbal abuse, and financial misappropriation. The report criticized the current reporting system, noting that calls to the ANE hotline often lack sufficient detail, and residents are seldom interviewed adequately. Moreover, facility staff frequently face intimidation or job loss when reporting abuse, creating a significant barrier to justice.


The report strongly recommends enhancing access to justice for older adults and addressing systemic issues within care facilities. As part of this effort, our Public Policy Coordinator, Barb Conant, serves on the Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Prevention Council, working tirelessly to advise and make recommendations to the ANE Unit.


At KABC, we take the issues of abuse, neglect, and exploitation very seriously. We are committed to working alongside the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman and other community partners to ensure that justice is served and protections for older adults are strengthened.


Additionally, KABC offers an elder abuse toolkit booklet, providing comprehensive information and resources on recognizing and addressing elder abuse. This valuable resource is available for free on our website.

Let us use World Elder Abuse Awareness Day as a catalyst to continue our advocacy, support our community, and work towards a future where every older adult can live with dignity and safety.

Advocacy with KABC 101: Your Guide to Making an Impact

By Libby Hastings • February 10, 2025
The Kansas legislative session is in full swing, making it the perfect time to engage with your lawmakers and advocate for policies that improve long-term care in our state. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just getting started, knowing how to effectively communicate with legislators is key to making a difference. We believe that every voice matters, and lawmakers want to hear from the people they represent. To find your legislator, visit the Kansas legislative website. When you visit www.kslegislature.org , there is an option on the left side of the website to “Find Your Legislator”. You may search by name, chamber, party, or select “Seach by Your Address”. This will lead you to Plural , a platform to find bill information and your local legislators by typing in your home address. Tips for Effective Advocacy Be Friendly – Legislators are people too! Approach them with sincerity and honesty. While time may be limited, be sure to focus on the issue you're there to champion. Be Prepared – This is your chance to educate. Start with a clear, concise explanation of the issue, and provide only factual information. Be Respectful – Not everyone will agree with your position. Some lawmakers may have concerns about costs, feasibility, or other factors. Treat them with respect, as they may be allies on future issues. Be Direct – Answer questions openly and honestly. Share the full picture, including both the challenges and the solutions. Ask for a Specific Action – Make it clear what you want your legislator to do. Common advocacy actions include: Sponsoring a bill Urging committee leadership to take action on a bill Speaking for or against a bill during debate Holding a public event to raise awareness Writing a letter to state agencies about oversight and implementation of a law Establish a Relationship – Don't just reach out when you need something. Contact your legislators regularly, thank them when they support your issues, and stay engaged. Building a relationship increases the likelihood they will listen when you advocate for change. Say Thanks – Gratitude goes a long way! Always follow up with a thank-you note or email after a meeting, even if the legislator disagrees with your position. Advocacy is about persistence, education, and relationship-building. By using these strategies, you can help ensure that long-term care remains a priority for Kansas lawmakers. Want to learn more? Check out KABC’s full Advocacy 101 guide here .

Advocacy in Action (February 2025): KABC Testifies Before House Social Services Budget Committee

By Libby Hastings • January 29, 2025
On Thursday, January 30th, Dan Goodman, Executive Director, presented testimony before the House Social Services Budget Committee. His remarks focused on essential recommendations for the Kansas Department of Aging & Disability Services (KDADS) budget, underscoring the urgent need for a Statewide Resource Guide for Older Kansans. Dan’s testimony emphasized Kansas’s rapidly aging population, with projections showing that more than 20% of Kansans will be 65 or older by 2030. With state resources already stretched thin, KABC urged the committee to prioritize investments in solutions that diversify and enhance access to long-term care services across Kansas. Highlighting the Statewide Resource Guide KABC’s flagship recommendation was a comprehensive Statewide Resource Guide for Older Kansans, modeled after the highly successful Douglas County Senior Resource Directory. The proposal seeks $190,000 to develop and distribute a directory that would serve as an essential tool for older Kansans and their families. The funding would cover: Initial Setup & Information Coordination: $85,000 One-Time Master Printing for Statewide Distribution (35,000 copies): $105,000 The guide would provide accurate, accessible, and up-to-date information on long-term care services and resources, with an online version that could be printed on demand. This initiative aligns with the Senior Care Legislative Task Force’s final recommendations and would empower Kansans to make informed decisions about care options. Dan emphasized the proven success of the Douglas County Senior Resource Directory, which KABC developed with grant funding through the Douglas County Community Foundation. Since its launch, the directory has been accessed online by over 700 individuals and distributed to hundreds of older adults, caregivers, and local businesses. Expanding this model statewide would ensure that every Kansan—regardless of where they live—has access to vital information when they need it most. Other Budget Priorities KABC Supports KABC also backed several of KDADS Governor’s budget recommendations, including funding increases for: HCBS Frail Elderly Waiver Growth HCBS Brain Injury Waiver Growth Nutrition Services Incentive Program Stay tuned for updates as we continue to advocate for these critical investments during the legislative session!
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