Elder abuse has serious and devastating effects on growing numbers of individuals. As Ohio’s older population steadily increases, so does the need for adequate protection. There is growing concern about the treatment of offenses committed against the elderly as less than the serious crimes they are. Requests for assistance from the Attorney General are common. Victims, their families, and concerned citizens contact the Attorney General’s Office to relay concerns of elder abuse. These requests often come after attempts to work with the local authorities have been unsuccessful. The victims often express frustration that their offenders have not been held accountable.
In 2009, the Attorney General’s Elder Abuse Commission was established to improve education efforts, boost research, and raise awareness of the devastating effects of elder abuse and exploitation of older Ohioans. The Commission provides a forum for improving elder justice throughout the state in addition to identifying funding, programming needs, and finding solutions.