Legislators address elder abuse oversight gaps in Massachusetts nontraditional settings

On June 24, 2025, the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Elder Affairs convened to discuss critical legislation aimed at enhancing protections for the elderly, particularly in nontraditional living environments. The proposed legislation seeks to expand the jurisdiction of the Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA) to investigate cases of elder abuse and neglect in settings such as prisons, jails, and various treatment facilities, which have historically fallen outside their purview.

The meeting highlighted a significant gap in the state's adult protective services framework. Currently, the jurisdictional overlap between the EOEA and the Department of Developmental Services (DPPC) creates a situation where individuals aged 60 and older are solely under the EOEA's authority. This means that once an elder turns 60, they lose the protective oversight that the DPPC could provide, particularly in custodial settings. This gap has raised concerns among advocates and service providers who report that many elderly individuals in these environments face abuse and neglect without any investigatory authority to address their situations.

Testimony from advocates emphasized the need for legislative reform to ensure that all elders, regardless of their living situation, receive adequate protection and support. The discussion underscored the increasing number of elderly individuals in custodial settings and the unique challenges they face, including a lack of oversight and accountability for their care.

In addition to the primary focus on elder abuse investigations, the committee also heard support for House Bill 792 and Senate Bill 476, which propose the establishment of a special commission to develop a statewide long-term services and supports benefit program. This initiative aims to address the broader needs of the aging population in Massachusetts, ensuring that they have access to necessary services and support systems.

The meeting concluded without immediate resolutions, but it set the stage for further discussions on how to effectively bridge the gaps in elder protection services. As the population of elderly individuals continues to grow, the implications of these legislative efforts will be crucial in shaping a more comprehensive and responsive system for elder care in Massachusetts.