Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel was honored with the Excellence in Leadership Award by the Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter for her efforts in combating elder abuse through Michigan’s Elder Abuse Task Force. The Task Force, established in 2019, comprises over 55 organizations and 100 individuals from various sectors. Nessel expressed her gratitude for the award and highlighted the importance of preserving the rights and freedoms of seniors in the state. Jennifer Lepard, President & CEO of the Michigan Chapter, praised Nessel for her dedication to safeguarding the state’s vulnerable populations, including those with Alzheimer's and dementia. The Elder Abuse Task Force has achieved significant milestones, such as introducing a Vulnerable Adult Incident Report form for law enforcement investigations statewide and enacting the Financial Exploitation Prevention Act in 2021. The Task Force is also collaborating with lawmakers to improve guardianship and conservatorship practices in Michigan. Despite over 100,000 older adults in Michigan being victims of elder abuse, many cases go unreported. Michigan residents are urged to seek help by calling 800-24-ABUSE or 855-444-3911 to report suspected elder abuse.