Rhode Island Candidates for Governor Discuss Elder Abuse, Livable Communities

AARP asked the candidates for Rhode Island governor how they will help seniors gain better financial security, end  financial  exploitation of seniors, and allow an aging population easier access to home- and community-based services.

QUESTION 1: By 2040, there will be more people aged 60+ than there are children – for the first time in the history of the world. As people live longer, healthier lives, we know we need to think differently about what it means to get older. Government programs and policies need to adapt to meet  changing  needs of this growing diverse population. What steps are being taken to update programs and policies to reflect these changes to ensure all Rhode Islanders have the opportunity to prosper in communities, achieve life-long health, and economic stability?

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QUESTION 2: A recent nationwide study estimated financial loss by victims of elder financial abuse to be at least $2.9 billion.  How will you support strengthening laws to protect seniors from abuse and financial exploitation? Will you support legislation to strengthen Adult Protective Services, strengthen guardianship and power attorney laws, increase civil or criminal penalties against financial exploitation, and create multidisciplinary teams to fight elder financial exploitation?

QUESTION 3: The majority of Rhode Island residents want to stay in their homes and communities as they age. One way to ensure that they don’t have to move from their homes is to redirect spending away from more costly nursing home care and into home and  community based  services (HCBS).  How will you help expand Rhode Island seniors’ access to quality services provided at home and in the community?