Alabama is looking for foster care families for elderly and adult residents, citing a steep rise in elder abuse in the state over the last decade.
“The rise in elder abuse and neglect over the last decade has been disheartening, but we have also seen so many individuals step up to provide loving, caring homes for many of Alabama’s aging individuals,” said Alabama Department of Human Resources Commissioner Nancy Buckner in a news release.
According to DHR, the state agency received more than 12,000 reports of elder abuse or neglect last year – an increase of 125% since 2013.
The United States Department of Justice says elder abuse can take many forms, including physical or emotional abuse, sexual abuse, not providing adequate care and financial exploitation. Abuse can occur in many settings like nursing homes, but most reports happen at home.
Increased fear or anxiety, isolation from friends or family, unusual changes in behavior or sleep, unexplained injuries, bruises, cuts or sores, unsanitary living conditions and poor hygiene and unusual or sudden changes in financial spending are a few key warning signs of abuse.
DHR said cases of abuse and neglect can be avoided with increased participation in the Adult Foster Care program, which places elderly or disabled adults who need daily assistance into a home environment. The agency is hoping to recruit one foster family in each of Alabama’s 67 counties.
Beth Nelson, an adult foster care provider in Elmore County, has been involved in the program for 16 years.
“I’ve had an adult foster in my home for nearly 16 years and it has enriched both of our lives,” Nelson said in a press release from DHR. “I don’t know what would have happened to him had I not taken him in back then. We’ve become family and do everything together.”
Those interested in becoming adult foster care providers are encouraged to contact their county DHR office. More information, including eligibility requirements, is available here.
