Pennsylvania lawmakers push to find out causes of death for older adults in abuse or neglect cases

Lawmakers in Pennsylvania are urging Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration to take more action in investigating the deaths of older adults following reports of abuse or neglect. There has been a significant increase in such deaths since 2019, prompting concerns from lawmakers about the Department of Aging’s response. 

The Department has been criticized for not collecting cause of death information, which could help prevent future fatalities. Despite claims from the Department that they are collecting necessary data, lawmakers argue that they should have access to death certificate information. 

The spike in deaths coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s unclear if this fully explains the increase, as similar jurisdictions did not see such a steep rise. Poverty often plays a role in these cases, and the Department works with county-level agencies to investigate complaints and provide support to older adults.

For more information see “Pennsylvania lawmakers push to find out causes of death for older adults in abuse or neglect cases”, Fox News., March 22, 2024.