The Sconi

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Justice, in conjunction with the Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources (GWAAR), announced that the Wisconsin Elder Abuse Hotline is a recipient of a 2024 USAging Aging Achievement Award.

The 2024 USAging Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards recognize members of USAging’s Area Agency on Aging who have developed innovative ways to support older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. The Wisconsin Elder Abuse Hotline was selected in the Elder Abuse Prevention category.

“Connecting victims, family members, and others to resources and support is an important part of effectively combating elder abuse,” said AG Kaul. “We’re glad that the impact of the Wisconsin Elder Abuse Hotline is being recognized.”

“The Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources is honored to have received this award and this recognition shows the importance of having a single point of contact for older adults who are trying to find assistance for a potentially abusive situation,” said John Schnabl, Executive Director of GWAAR.

"At USAging, we are thrilled to recognize the outstanding achievements of this year's Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards recipients. Their innovative programs and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of older adults set a high standard for excellence in our field. These initiatives not only enhance the well-being of our aging population but also inspire others to strive for impactful and lasting change in their communities," said USAging CEO Sandy Markwood.

The 2024 USAging Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards honored traditional and new strategies across various categories including advocacy; agency operations; caregiving; community planning and livable communities; diversity, equity and inclusion; economic security; elder abuse prevention; health–social care integration; healthy aging; home and community-based services; housing and homelessness; kinship and grandfamily support; nutrition; technology; social engagement; transportation and mobility; workforce development and volunteerism.

All winners are highlighted in the USAging Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards Showcase.

About Wisconsin Elder Abuse Hotline

With funding from the Wisconsin Department of Justice to pilot a program aimed at addressing elder abuse statewide, GWAAR developed the Wisconsin Elder Abuse Program. This program takes a comprehensive approach to assisting victims by bridging gaps between local and state resources. It offers a single access point for victims, caregivers, family members, and concerned community members who suspect elder abuse. As part of this initiative, the Wisconsin Elder Abuse Hotline connects victims with appropriate local resources or law enforcement if needed.

About USAging

USAging is the national association representing and supporting the network of Area Agencies on Aging while advocating for Title VI Native American Aging Programs. Its members assist older adults and people with disabilities throughout the United States in living with optimal health, well-being, independence, and dignity in their homes and communities. For more information, visit usaging.org or follow @theUSAging on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.