The North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry (NCBAM), founded in 2009, is a ministry funded by the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. It provides programs and services to support adults aged 65 and older and other vulnerable populations in maintaining their independence and quality of life.
NCBAM offers a variety of services including healthcare access, transportation assistance, social engagement initiatives, elder abuse awareness workshops, and caregiver support training. They focus on helping older adults maintain independence while ensuring their well-being.
NCBAM partners with non-profits, government agencies, local churches, and community groups to extend their services. Their collaborations enable them to reach a broader audience and better support vulnerable adults across North Carolina.
Visit the NCBAM website to explore their programs and services in greater detail.
Long-Term Care (LTC) Ombudsmen play a vital role in the protection of adults, especially those in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes, adult care homes, and other residential care settings in North Carolina. Here’s how they contribute to adult protection:
Advocacy for Residents
LTC Ombudsmen advocate for the rights and well-being of residents in long-term care facilities. They ensure that residents are treated with respect and dignity, receive appropriate care, and live in a safe and clean environment.
Investigation of Complaints
One of the main roles of an ombudsman is to investigate complaints made by or on behalf of residents. These complaints can range from issues of neglect, abuse (both physical and emotional), financial exploitation, or violations of rights.
Education
Ombudsmen provide information and guidance to residents, their families, and facility staff about residents’ rights and good care practices. They also educate the public and policymakers about long-term care issues.
Witnessing Documents
In North Carolina, LTC Ombudsmen may serve as witnesses for residents signing certain legal documents, like advance directives. This helps ensure that residents are making informed decisions without undue influence.
Regular Visits to Facilities
By regularly visiting long-term care facilities, ombudsmen establish a visible presence that can deter potential neglect or abuse. These visits also allow ombudsmen to build relationships with residents and staff, making it easier for residents to voice concerns.
Collaboration
LTC Ombudsmen collaborate with other agencies and organizations involved in adult protection, such as Adult Protective Services (APS), the Division of Health Service Regulation, and local law enforcement. They can refer cases when necessary and work together to address systemic issues. Due to federal confidentiality requirements, an ombudsman can’t make an APS report unless the resident or the resident’s legal representative gives explicit consent to disclose their identity, or the ombudsman has direct, firsthand knowledge of an incident of abuse, neglect or exploitation in a long-term care facility. North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services policy (p. 26 of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program Manual) provides guidance to ombudsmen in situations where abuse or neglect is suspected and the resident or their legal representative refuses to provide the necessary consent.
Systemic Advocacy
Beyond individual complaints, ombudsmen identify patterns and trends in long-term care settings. They can then advocate for systemic changes at the local, state, or federal level, pushing for better regulations, policies, and practices that ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
Confidentiality
The LTC Ombudsman program provides a confidential avenue for residents and their families to report concerns. This ensures that those who might be reluctant to come forward due to fear of retaliation have a safe way to voice their issues.
Empowerment
By informing residents of their rights and supporting them in voicing their concerns, ombudsmen empower residents to be their own advocates and stand up against neglect, abuse, and exploitation.
In summary, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program in North Carolina plays a multi-faceted role in adult protection. LTC Ombudsmen not only serve as direct advocates for residents in long-term care facilities but also work on larger systemic issues, ensuring a safer and more dignified environment for some of North Carolina’s most vulnerable citizens.
The North Carolina Department of Insurance (NC DOI) regulates the insurance industry in North Carolina, which encompasses all types of insurance, such as health, life, long-term care, disability, homeowners, and auto insurance, and oversees collection agencies, among other duties. The NC DOI assists consumers with questions about insurance and claims filing. It also investigates complaints and allegations of insurance fraud. In the context of protecting vulnerable adults, the NC DOI contributes in many ways, including:
Senior Fraud Education
The NC DOI offers programs and information about preventing fraud targeting older adults. This includes educating older adults about insurance scams, Medicare fraud, or other schemes that specifically prey on older adults.
SHIIP
The Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is a part of the NC DOI. SHIIP counselors offer free, objective information about Medicare, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare prescription drug plans, long-term care insurance, and other health insurance concerns. This helps older adults make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.
Regulation and Consumer Protection
The NC DOI regulates insurance companies and agents to ensure they are operating legally and ethically. If an insurance company or agent is taking advantage of older an older adult or not acting in their best interest, the NC DOI can intervene.
Publications and Resources
The NC DOI provides publications and online resources specifically geared towards older adults, informing them about their rights, options, and potential red flags.
Collaboration with Other Agencies
While direct adult protective services does not fall under the NC DOI’s purview, they can collaborate with other state and local agencies that do handle such matters, like the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services, and local county departments of social services. The NC DOI can provide these agencies with relevant information about insurance fraud or other related issues that might affect seniors.
In North Carolina, Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are organizations that operate under the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. There are 16 Area Agencies on Aging and they are housed under the regional planning organizations or councils of government in the region. The AAA is responsible for planning, coordinating, and administering a wide range of services and programs that support older adults and their caregivers. To access staff contact information by region and program, visit the AAA Staff Roster page.
The main purpose of the AAA is to ensure that older adults in North Carolina have access to the resources and assistance they need to maintain their independence, well-being, and quality of life. The agency collaborates with local governments, community organizations, and service providers to deliver a comprehensive network of services and supports.
Here are some key functions and services provided by the Area Agencies on Aging in North Carolina:
Information and Assistance
The AAA offers information and referral services, helping older adults and their families navigate available resources and programs. They provide information on topics such as healthcare, long-term care options, housing, transportation, and legal assistance.
Caregiver Support
The AAA recognizes the vital role of caregivers and provides support services tailored to their needs. This may include respite care, caregiver education and training, support groups, counseling, and assistance in accessing community resources.
Nutrition Programs
The AAA administers programs such as Meals on Wheels and congregate dining, which provide nutritious meals to older adults who may have difficulty preparing meals for themselves. These programs also serve as opportunities for socialization and connection.
Health and Wellness Programs
The AAA promotes health and wellness among older adults through various programs and initiatives. This may include health screenings, exercise classes, falls prevention programs, chronic disease self-management workshops, and other activities aimed at maintaining and improving overall well-being.
Long-Term Care Options
Long-Term Care Ombudsman ensure that the rights of residents in long term care facilities are honored. They provide advocacy, mediation and problem-solving for residents and their families who feel that their rights have been violated. Ombudsmen also provide training to long-term care staff and educate the community about the rights of residents, elder abuse, and long-term care issues. The AAA provides information and assistance regarding long-term care options available to older adults, such as home and community-based services, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes.
Advocacy and Planning
The AAA advocates for the needs and rights of older adults, working to ensure that policies and programs are in place to address their unique challenges. They also engage in strategic planning to assess the needs of the aging population and develop initiatives to meet those needs effectively.
It’s important to note that specific programs and services may vary across different regions in North Carolina as the AAAs operate at the local level. However, the overall goal remains consistent—to enhance the quality of life for older adults and support them in living independently and with dignity.
Legal Aid of North Carolina plays a significant role in protecting adults from abuse, neglect and exploitation. Here are some ways in which Legal Aid can help in this regard:
Legal Representation
Legal Aid provides free legal representation to adults who have experienced abuse, neglect, or exploitation. They can help victims understand their legal rights, assist in navigating the legal system, and advocate for their interests in court proceedings.
Obtaining Protective Orders
Legal Aid attorneys can assist victims in obtaining protective orders, such as domestic violence protective orders or civil no-contact orders, to help ensure their safety and protect them from further harm.
Addressing Financial Exploitation
Legal Aid can help victims of financial exploitation by providing legal advice and representation. They can assist in recovering assets, reporting fraudulent activities, and advocating for the victim’s financial rights.
Guardianship
Legal Aid attorneys can assist individuals who are subject to guardianship when the guardian is abusing or exploiting the ward (the person who has a guardian). They can provide legal support, assist with the necessary paperwork, and represent the interests of the individual in guardianship proceedings.
Public Benefits and Access to Services
Legal Aid helps adults access public benefits and services they may be entitled to, ensuring they receive the support they need. If someone has been wrongfully denied benefits, they can assist with appeals and represent individuals in disputes related to benefit programs.
Education and Outreach
Legal Aid conducts community education and outreach programs to raise awareness about adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation. They provide information on recognizing signs of abuse, prevention strategies, and legal rights. By educating the community, Legal Aid helps individuals and organizations become better equipped to identify and address these issues.
Collaboration and Referrals
Legal Aid works in collaboration with other agencies and organizations, such as social services, law enforcement, and healthcare providers, to identify and address cases of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. They provide referrals to appropriate resources as needed.
It’s important to note that Legal Aid services may vary based on the specific resources and programs available in different locations. Individuals seeking assistance should contact one of Legal Aid’s Helplines to inquire about the specific services they offer to protect adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and to apply for services. Seniors (aged 60+) can call their Senior Legal Helpline at 1-877-579-7562, and people of any age can call their main Helpline at 1-866-219-5262. Please be aware that Legal Aid has many more people applying for services than they have the resources to serve, so not everyone who contacts Legal Aid will be provided legal representation.
To inquire about having a Legal Aid attorney or other staff member join a multidisciplinary team in your area, please reach out to Meredith Gregory, Managing Attorney of Legal Aid’s Senior Law Project, at MeredithG@legalaidnc.org. To learn more about Legal Aid, please visit www.legalaidnc.org.
The North Carolina Secretary of State’s Office plays a role in protecting vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation through various programs and initiatives. While their primary focus is on financial exploitation, their efforts indirectly contribute to the overall safety and well-being of vulnerable adults. Here are some ways the Secretary of State’s Office helps:
Securities Division
The Securities Division within the Secretary of State’s Office is responsible for enforcing securities laws and regulations. The Division investigates and takes action against individuals or entities engaged in fraudulent investment schemes that may target vulnerable adults. As a partnering agency, the Securities Division receives investment fraud abuse and exploitation referrals from APS offices statewide through the HelpVul online reporting platform.
Telephone: 800-688-4507
Investor Education
The Secretary of State’s Office provides educational resources and outreach programs to raise awareness among vulnerable adults about investment fraud and financial exploitation. By educating adults about common scams, warning signs, and steps to protect themselves, they empower them to make informed financial decisions and reduce their vulnerability. Browse their alerts and bulletins for more information.
Charitable Solicitation Licensing Division
As with investment professionals, the Secretary of State’s Office is responsible for licensing most charities and professional fundraisers that fall under the NC Solicitation of Contributions statute. The Charitable Solicitation Licensing Division investigates and takes action against individuals or entities that violate the NC Solicitation of Contributions statute.
Telephone: 888-830-4989
Notary Public Oversight
The Secretary of State’s Office oversees the commissioning and regulation of notaries public. Notaries play a vital role in preventing financial exploitation by ensuring the authenticity of signatures and verifying the capacity of individuals entering into legal agreements. The Department’s oversight helps maintain the integrity of notarial acts and prevents fraudulent activities that may target vulnerable adults. You can even use their Find A Notary feature to locate a notary near you.
Telephone: 919-814-5400, Option 5.
Counterfeit Trademarks Enforcement
The Secretary of State’s Office oversees the enforcement of the state’s trademark laws. Consumers must know that the products they purchase, including prescription medication, are genuine and safe. The Counterfeit Trademarks Enforcement Department investigates and takes action against individuals or entities engaged in trademark violations. Consumers using online pharmacies to purchase lower-cost medications are advised to use the Verify Before You Buy tool to check whether the online pharmacy is legitimate.
Authentications Unit
Through its Document Authentications Unit, the Secretary of State’s Office authenticates official documents that are to be used overseas. This service ensures that only authenticated documents are used to complete transactions in foreign countries.
Advance Health Care Directive Registry
The Secretary of State’s Office maintains the Advance Health Care Directive Registry, a secure, online registry for people to store their advance health care directives so that the person(s) they designate may have quick and convenient access when needed. By offering this service, the Secretary of State’s Office makes it easy for a person to make their wishes known in times of need when they are unable to speak for themselves.
Public Awareness Campaigns
The Secretary of State’s Office may conduct public awareness campaigns to help vulnerable adults, their families, and caregivers. These campaigns aim to educate the public about the risks of financial exploitation, abuse, and neglect. By promoting awareness and encouraging reporting, they help create a safer environment for vulnerable adults and encourage communities to be vigilant.
Collaboration and Reporting
The Secretary of State’s Office collaborates with other agencies, law enforcement, and advocacy organizations to share information, coordinate efforts, and address cases of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. They may receive and investigate complaints related to financial fraud or misconduct that affect vulnerable adults, working in conjunction with other agencies to protect their interests.
It’s important to note that while the Secretary of State’s Office plays a role in protecting older adults, they do not have direct authority over all aspects of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Other agencies, such as Adult Protective Services and law enforcement, have lead roles in investigating and addressing these issues. Coordinated efforts among various organizations and agencies are essential to effectively protect vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
