A nonprofit care group Tuesday opened the state’s first safe haven for elderly residents abused by family members, spouses and others.
The program — offered by Saint Elizabeth Community — is timely, say experts.
Last year, the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence helped 315 abused seniors.
“That’s just the tip of the iceberg,” said Deborah DeBare, executive director of the coalition. Many victims of elderly abuse go to the hospital for an injury, then return home without calling for help.
Saint Elizabeth Community will house 20 people a year in rooms and apartments in its nursing homes and assisted-living complexes in East Greenwich, Bristol and Providence, said president and chief executive officer Steven J. Horowitz.
“Sadly ... elder abuse is on the rise in the United States and here in Rhode Island,” he said.
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R.I.'s First Safe Haven For Elderly Opens in East Grenwich
5 comments:
It's a good beginning.
Yes, this is great. They have shelters for battered wives and children; the elderly should have the same.
Applause for Rhode Island!
This safe haven is a testimony of Rhode Island's committment to the elderly. Other states should do the same.
I hope my state picks up on this.
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