Establishes a telephone reassurance program for senior citizens

BILL NUMBER:A8390

Title of bill

An act to amend the elder law, in relation to establish- ing a telephone reassurance program for senior citizens

Purpose or general idea of bill

To create a voluntary program that shall provide a system for senior citizens residing in this state to receive automated telephone calls at regular intervals at their place of residence. Upon the failure of a senior citizen to answer such automated calls, local law enforcement shall be dispatched to those residences in order to determine the welfare of the senior citizen.

Summary of specific provisions

JUSTIFICATION: Being alone is one of the greatest fears older adults have, as they grow older. The telephone reassurance program has been credited with saving the lives of many older adults who may live alone and have fallen or become sick while in their residence. This free and voluntary service allows older adults to find comfort and security know- ing that someone will be checking on them. The elderly are telephoned by an automated calling system daily at regular intervals. In the event that something does happen, or failure of the senior citizen to answer the calls, law enforcement shall be dispatched to their residences in order to determine their welfare. This program can be beneficial to the lives of many senior citizens and allow for their friends and family to rest easy knowing that their loved ones are being looked after,

Prior legislative history

New bill

Fiscal implications

None

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the ninetieth day after it shall have become a law, provided, however, that effective immediately, the addition, amendment and/or repeal of any rule or regulation neces- sary for the implementation of this act on its effective-date is author- ized to be made and completed on or before such date.