Pennsylvania Aging Department enhances transparency for elder abuse investigations

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging has taken steps to enhance transparency in its oversight of county Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). Public access is now available to information on how promptly these agencies are investigating suspected elder abuse cases.

This initiative was announced by Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich at the Westmoreland County Area Agency on Aging. The announcement highlighted the department's revamped approach to supporting and overseeing AAAs, which has resulted in higher compliance rates across the state regarding investigation timelines.

The focus on increased efforts from the department has significantly improved the compliance rate of Westmoreland County AAA in handling protective services for older adults. The compliance rate rose from 29% in 2024 to 97% in 2025, indicating that older residents are receiving necessary assistance more promptly and efficiently.

Secretary Kavulich praised the progress at the local AAA, stating, "I commend the Westmoreland AAA leadership and the entire protective services team for their hard work and dedication to improving their performance." He attributed the positive changes to the supportive approach under the Shapiro Administration, saying, "With our Department's assistance, Westmoreland AAA is showing how the Shapiro Administration's approach of making supportive change is generating measurable results."

Kavulich further emphasized that despite ongoing efforts to revamp the department's performance monitoring system, collaboration with the AAAs has ensured necessary tools for improvement are in place. "It is evident that our work is leading to real-world results that benefit and protect older Pennsylvanians," he added.