The Alabama Department of Human resources announced a request for several additional foster homes for disabled, elderly adults across the state.
The foster care provided will allow the adults to live in family-style homes, instead of institutional settings when they begin to require round-the-clock care.
Unfortunately, in recent years the Department has reported an increase in elder abuse at many Alabama foster homes. In 2023 alone for example, Alabama DHR received more than 12,000 reports of elder abuse or neglect. That represents an increase of 125 percent since 2013.
“The rise in elder abuse and neglect over the last decade has been disheartening, but we have also seen so many individuals step up to provide loving, caring homes for many of Alabama’s aging individuals,” said Alabama DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner. “Becoming an adult foster care provider is both helpful for the adult in need and incredibly rewarding for the person opening their home. The need for these extraordinary individuals is growing every day and I believe there are many more Alabamians who are ready to step up and help.”
Alabama Department of Senior Services Commissioner Jean Brown also emphasized the importance of the foster homes.
“We are proud to partner with DHR to find the absolute best services and care for seniors in need,” said Brown. “Adult Foster Care is a life-changing experience for everyone involved and can brighten the lives of some of Alabama’s most vulnerable residents.”
Beth Nelson is an adult foster care provider in Elmore County.
“I’ve had an adult foster in my home for nearly 16 years and it has enriched both of our lives,” Nelson said. “I don’t know what would have happened to him had I not taken him in back then. We’ve become family and do everything together.”
Anyone interested in becoming an adult foster care provider is encouraged to contact their county DHR office. More information, including eligibility requirements, is available at dhr.alabama.gov/AFC.
DHR also reminds the public to report suspected adult abuse, neglect and exploitation by calling the Adult Abuse Hotline at 1-800-458-7214, emailing [email protected] or contacting a county DHR office. Warning signs include:
- Increased fear or anxiety
- Isolation from friends or family
- Withdrawal from normal activities
- Unusual changes in behavior or sleep
- Unexplained injuries, bruises, cuts or sores
- Unsanitary living conditions and poor hygiene
- Unusual or sudden changes in financial spending patterns, wills, or other important documents
Last week, Gov. Kay Ivey proclaimed June 15, 2024, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Alabama to raise awareness and encourage anyone thinking of opening their home to elderly, disabled Alabamians.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
