"Any knowing, intentional or negligent act by any person that causes harm or serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult."
-Michigan Department of Justice
The victim services program at the Human Development Commission offers an Elder Advocate that serves Tuscola, Huron, Sanilac and Lapeer counties. The Elder Advocate is there to provide education and to assist with the following: Safety Planning, Crisis Intervention, Healing Techniques, Community Resources, Legal Advocacy and Emotional Support
An advocate is there to provide education, support and referrals to community resources. Each case plan is unique to the client and their situation. If you or someone you know has experienced elder abuse, or wants to know more, please reach out to our trauma-informed Elder Advocate.
An advocate will carefully listen to survivors to understand their legal needs and help them to make the proper connections. When requested, an advocate may accompany survivors to their legal appointments, whether with their attorney, the county prosecutor, law enforcement, or the courts.
An advocate understands there are various situations and circumstances where a survivor may encounter their abuser and how those situations might impede a survivor's ability to live violence-free. Safety Plans are an essential tool to help prepare for any type of circumstance. An advocate is available to work with survivors on the uniqueness of their situation and help them to develop their safety plans for their future reference.
Through individual support, an advocate educates survivors about the dynamics of elder abuse and help them to identify patterns of abusive behavior. Advocates also assist survivors with understanding their own responses to trauma. Advocates work to help establish healthy boundaries.
Disclosure of information follows all state and federal confidentiality provisions including the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). For the safety of survivors and staff, there are some exceptions when confidential personal information may be disclosed without written consent.
This includes:
Duty to Warn: Survivor states that the intention to harm themselves or someone else.
Suspicion of Child Abuse or Neglect
Court Order: A subpoena signed by a judge.
Crime on the Premises: If a survivor commits a crime on Human Development Commission property police may require a statement(s).