Designates June 15 of each year as Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
Impact
This resolution seeks not only to acknowledge the severity of elder abuse but also encourages the state government to take proactive steps in addressing and preventing it. By designating a specific day for awareness, the legislature aims to mobilize state officials and citizens to engage in community activities that shed light on the causes and signs of elder abuse. The goal is to enhance support systems for vulnerable seniors who may not report abuse due to shame or fear of retaliation.
Summary
SJR91, a Senate Joint Resolution introduced in the New Jersey Legislature on June 6, 2022, designates June 15 of each year as 'Elder Abuse Awareness Day.' The resolution aims to foster awareness and understanding of elder abuse—a pervasive issue affecting an estimated five million senior citizens across the United States each year. It highlights the various forms of elder abuse, including physical, emotional, neglect, abandonment, sexual abuse, and financial abuse, emphasizing that such maltreatment can originate from family members or caregivers.
Contention
While SJR91 is largely supported as a necessary initiative for social advocacy, some may argue it is merely a symbolic gesture without substantial legislative power to effect change in existing elder care policies. Concerns may arise around whether the designated awareness day will translate into actionable reforms or preferable services for at-risk seniors, particularly in terms of protective measures within care institutions and enhanced reporting mechanisms.