The AGO supports and protects older Vermonters, such as: investigating and prosecuting claims of elder abuse; providing education and outreach around scams, financial exploitation, and elder fraud; and supporting state agencies and the legislature in various bills and initiatives.
Below are some examples of our work.
Opposing Cuts to Older Vermonters’ Federal Food & Nutrition Benefits
In December 2019, Attorney General Donovan and the AGO submitted comments in opposition to the Trump Administration’s proposal to cut SNAP (3SquaresVT) benefits. The proposal would cut $25 million in benefits to Vermonters. It would cut the average monthly 3SquaresVT benefit (per household) from $216 to $134. The cuts would disproportionately impact older Vermonters and people living with disabilities.
Partnering with 2-1-1 to bring supportive resources to Vermonters in need
Vermont 2-1-1 is a program of the United Ways of Vermont that maintains a 24/7 hotline (2-1-1) and searchable online database to answer these exact kinds of questions. We’re collaborating with 2-1-1 to raise awareness about their valuable services and help enhance their ability to assist callers with concerns regarding elder abuse and exploitation. Dial 2-1-1 or visit their website with your questions.
Supporting the Age Strong Initiative
The AGO supports and works with the Department of Health and Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living (DAIL) in the Age of Strong Initiative - a 10-year, multisector roadmap that serves as a coordinated and efficient system of services to enhance and secure the right for all Vermonters to age safely and happily, while maintaining dignity and respect. The plan addresses a variety of strategies, including for housing and independent living, transportation, wellness and injury prevention, public safety, social connections, and financial security. You can visit HealthVermont.gov/AgeStrongVT to offer your ideas and suggestions
Consumer Guide on Vermont Long-Term Care Options
Making decisions about moving yourself or a loved one to a long-term care home can be emotionally difficult. It can be practically, difficult, as well, given the range long-term care options. In Vermont, we have “nursing homes,” “assisted living residences” and two categories of “residential care homes.” What are the differences between these kinds of facilities? In January 2020, to help consumers understand and navigate Vermont’s long-term care landscape, the AGO partnered with the Department of Disabilities, Aging & Independent living to develop an educational guide for consumers: “Comparing Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Residences, and Residential Care Homes in Vermont.”
Training case managers & home health workers on elder financial exploitation
In July 2019, the AGO joined the Department of Financial Regulation, the Office of the Public Guardian, and Vermont Legal Aid to provide a training to case managers, social workers and home health workers on “Spotting and Addressing Financial Exploitation” of their clients.
Statewide Listening Tour
In April and May of 2018, the AGO visited each of Vermont’s 14 counties to listen to perspectives on older Vermonters’ greatest needs, concerns and vulnerabilities. AGO members met with dozens of older Vermonters at senior centers, senior meal sites and senior housing units. They met with approximately 230 representatives of 65 different organizations that serve older Vermonters, including the Area Agencies on Aging, SASH, Meals on Wheels, home health agencies, hospitals, Veterans Affairs, the VT Alzheimer’s Association, the Vermont Center For Aging, AARP-VT and Legal Aid, among others.