Advocacy plays a key role in protecting the rights, well-being, and access to vital resources for older adults. As people age, they may face challenges like healthcare needs, housing issues, financial concerns, or even elder abuse, which can be difficult to manage without support. That’s why advocacy services are so important. They provide the help and guidance aging adults need to navigate these obstacles. Many organizations across the state offer these services, and here are some you may want to explore:
Statewide:
- Collaborative Response to Elder & Vulnerable Adult Abuse (CREVA) – provides emergency services and supports to older and vulnerable adult victims of crime in most of the counties in Tennessee
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman – advocates for Tennesseans residing in long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, assisted care living facilities, homes for the aged and adult care homes
- Tennessee Adult Protective Services – investigates reports of abuse, neglect, or fraud of adults who are unable to protect themselves due to a physical or mental limitation
East Tennessee:
- Legal Aid of East Tennessee – advocates for the elderly, for families, and for victims of domestic violence and work closely with their clients to help navigate legal challenges and seek out justice
- Legal Assistance for the Elderly – provides legal services and referrals to those 60+ and offers public education presentations to senior centers, churches, civic groups, etc. upon request
Middle Tennessee:
- Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and The Cumberlands – mission is to advance, defend and enforce the legal rights of low-income and vulnerable people in order to secure for them the basic necessities of life
West Tennessee:
- West Tennessee Legal Services – advice and representation to seniors age 60 and older with a focus on public benefits, healthcare, housing, consumer, and simple wills, powers of attorney, and advance directives
If you need more help or have questions, please reach out to Pathfinder! You can contact us by phone at 800-640-4636, email TNPathfinder@vumc.org, or on our website via live chat. We’re here to support you.