HI HCR248

Requests the Executive Office on Aging to convene a task force to determine causes of elder abuse in Hawaii, identify best practices for prevention, and investigate developing a statewide Senior Legal Helpline.

Task force to be chaired by the Executive Director of the Executive Office on Aging and include the Director of Human Services, county police chiefs, Executive Director of Legal Aid Society of Hawaii, one Senate member, and one House member.

Cites estimates that 4,000 or more cases of elder abuse may occur annually in Hawaii, with only 514 cases investigated by the Department of Human Services in 2006, indicating a significant gap in reporting and services.

Notes Hawaii's elderly population aged 60 and older will increase by 93.8 percent between 2000 and 2030, with those 85 and older increasing by 174 percent, necessitating improved elder protection services.

Task force must submit recommendations to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2011 Regular Session convenes.