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Thank you for your continued interest in Michigan’s Elder Abuse Task Force – an alliance representing more than 55 different organizations in the public, private, and non-profit sectors – all working together to reduce barriers facing our aging population.

Updates

In the 2023-2024 legislative session, the Elder Abuse Task Force celebrated two major wins: the Uniform Power of Attorney Act and updates to the Uniform Securities Act, both taking effect in 2024. Although some important bills, like the Guardianship Reform Package and Vulnerable Adult Protection Package, were not passed, the Task Force remains committed to passing laws to improve protections of Michigan's older adults. In 2024, the STOP team hosted training sessions across Michigan to teach professionals about financial abuse of vulnerable adults, with more than 140 attendees. Additional training events are planned for 2025.

MGDP: Year in Review & a Look Ahead

The Michigan Guardianship Diversion Project (MGDP) is a pilot project of the Michigan Elder Justice Initiative. It is entering its second and final year of seeking alternatives to guardianship. The program has been rolled out in Bay, Genesee, Grand Traverse, and Muskegon counties. Project staff help clients find less restrictive ways to meet their needs than having the court appoint a guardian. 

More detailed information about this exciting project can viewed by clicking the link below. The link also includes a snapshot of one of the project’s many success stories.

MDHHS Adult Protective Services Public Service Awareness Campaign

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Adult Protective Services (APS) released its Public Service Announcement (PSA) campaign on January 13, 2025. The campaign’s goal is to protect Michigan’s most vulnerable adults. It will do this by making the public aware of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. If you suspect abuse, report it by calling 1-855-444-3911. This number is available 24/7, all year round.

Uniform Power of Attorney PSA

To help educate the public, Attorney General Dana Nessel released a PSA on the new Power of Attorney (POA) law. It explains how the law will help financial institutions and healthcare providers accept POA forms, reduce guardianship and conservatorship cases, and punish abuse.  The Task Force is pleased to share that the video has been viewed more than 40,000 times. We encourage anyone who hasn't viewed it, to watch it here.

To Report:
855-444-3911
mi.gov/protectiveservices

For Questions:
800-24-ABUSE (22873)
mi.gov/elderabuse