Alabama has signed “Shirley’s Law” into law, creating the nation’s first-ever Elder Abuse Registry, listing those convicted of having mistreated a senior citizen in a database. Texas, however, does not have such a database.
According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, the state of Texas responded to more than 99,000 allegations of elder abuse in 2021; more than 104,000 allegations in 2020; and more than 100,000 allegations in 2019.
Shirley’s Law – named after Shirley Holcombe who survived elder abuse – was signed into Alabama law on Thursday by Gov. Kay Ivey, creating the nation’s first elder abuse registry. A caretaker took advantage of Holcombe, making her a victim of forgery.
According to Elder Options of Texas, all Texans are obligated to report suspicions of elder abuse or neglect.
Elder abuse can occur in any form of mistreatment which results in harm or loss to a person 65+ years old – generally divided into physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, exploitation, neglect and abandonment.
“The law requires any person who believes that a child, or person 65 years or older, or an adult with disabilities is being abused, neglected, or exploited to report the circumstances,” according to Elder Options of Texas. “A person making a report is immune from civil or criminal liability provided they make the report in good faith, and the name of the person making the report is kept confidential.”
To report possible abuse of a senior not in a healthcare facility, contact Texas Family and Protective Services Elder Abuse Hotline at 800-252-5400 or 512-834-3784.
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