Historical Background
Elder abuse has always been hidden issue in the American society. In the 1950s, the Congress passed legislation, which provides fund to states for setting up protective service units. (Bonnie, Richard J, 2003) In 1965, the Older Americans Act (OAA) was originally enacted, which is to provide older adults with services and supporters that would ensure their safety and health in their living environments. However, the act expired in 2011 as the Congress could not provide sufficient fund. (Elder abuse: What is the federal role, 2012) By 1968, there were less than twenty programs to provide protective services. In 1974, the Social Security Act stated that Social Service Block Grand (SSBG) provided funds for states to establish programs to protect adults and children. Then, around twenty states had made use of the power of law to protect adults. Yet, there was lack of support from the federal government, causing the issue to grow. (National Adult Protective Service Association, (n.d.)
Throughout the years, the challenges of responding to elder abuse includes the standard definition of elder abuse, and the proper respond to reports of elder abuse. Since different states and individuals had different perspectives and opinions on the issue, and lack of fundings for the establishment of programs, therefore causing the limited support and response to the issue. (National Adult Protective Service Association, (n.d.)