The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on June 9 announced a new Federal Elder Justice Action Plan and launched the “Never EVER” campaign to help older adults, families, and caregivers spot and avoid government and business imposter scams. HHS said the plan is a government-wide strategy focused on prevention, accountability, coordination across federal agencies, and making help easier to find for older adults facing abuse, neglect, exploitation, or fraud. The announcement also says the Elder Justice Coordinating Council includes 17 federal departments and agencies and that the new plan builds on the council’s earlier recommendations with measurable steps tied to enforcement, prevention, and public awareness.
For LeadingAge Ohio members, the announcement is another reminder that financial exploitation remains a serious risk for older adults and a concern that reaches providers, families, and communities alike. HHS cited estimates that roughly one in 10 older adults experiences abuse, neglect, or exploitation each year, with imposter scams among the threats the new campaign is meant to address. Read the original HHS announcement.