Elder Abuse is Generally Known About but Rarely Discussed.

Push for elderly-abuse bill BY LOUISE RADNOFSKY

WASHINGTON - Rep. Peter King is trying to build support for a bill that would get more money to fight elder abuse, a problem he describes as "underground" because it's generally known about but rarely discussed.

King (R-Seaford), who has a strong reputation for outspokenness, is working with House Democratic Caucus Chairman Rahm Emanuel (D-Ill.) to push through a law that would set aside around $650 million a year for detecting, prosecuting and researching abuse.

Advocates say part of the problem is that they don't know for sure how many elderly Americans suffer violence, psychological abuse, neglect or exploitation, or the type of relationship victims have with their abusers.

Estimates for the number of senior citizens who have experienced abuse range between 500,000 and 5 million, said Bob Blancato of the Elder Justice Coalition at a briefing for congressional staff Friday.

Kathleen Quinn of the National Adult Protective Services Association said it was believed most abusers are family members, primarily adult children.

The bill has failed to pass on two previous occasions. Campaigners hope it stands a better chance early in a Democratic-controlled Congress that is focusing on health issues.

"[Members] of the generation that won World War II and built our incredible prosperity should not live their last years in fear, shame and degradation," Quinn said. She said the request was small compared to the annual $7-billion child welfare budget.

The bill also includes grants and a tax credit to help care facilities attract and retain staff, and tougher requirements for homes to report crimes immediately.

"It's one of those issues that really is good government and good politics," said King, who noted the growth of the elderly population.

Though some Republican congressmen have a tense relationship with Emanuel, the architect of House Democrats' midterm victories, King said he has enjoyed working with him.

"He's a character," King said. "He's Chicago, I'm New York. We understand each other."