Iowa Senator Grassley Advances Elder Justice Bill Through Committee

U.S. Senate, Oct 25, 2006

WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley, chairman of the Committee on Finance, won unanimous committee approval of bipartisan legislation to help prevent elder abuse and give consumers more information to guide nursing home placement.

"As America ages, more people are vulnerable to elder abuse and neglect," Grassley said. "It’s important to marshal resources and coordinate the services of experts equipped to protect the elderly. It’s also critical to make sure families are educated about their options before placing loved ones in a nursing home or other facility. This legislation will help in both areas."

"I am pleased that the legislation the committee will consider today includes several improvements that will help consumers to understand the resources available to them and provide critical information about the quality of care in available nursing homes. I am hopeful that these improvements will contribute to better information being available about nursing homes and that this information will help ease what is a trying and emotional process."