Protecting Seniors
By Bill MimsRecently our office presented a grant to SeniorNavigator, a statewide non-profit group that connects seniors in Virginia with health and aging information and service providers. They will use the funds to help educate Virginia seniors who are vulnerable to prescription drug abuse.
The $30,116 grant results from recent prescription drug settlements secured by former Attorney General Bob McDonnell, working with other Attorneys General nationwide.
SeniorNavigator developed and manages the online resource www.SeniorNavigator.org. Since its launch in February 2001, SeniorNavigator.org has served as a resource with a comprehensive network of community-based centers across Virginia. The Web site combines online assistance through its network, including hospitals, libraries, sheriff’s offices, Agencies on Aging, senior centers and faith-based organizations.
Older adults are vulnerable to the tragic problem of prescription drug abuse and addiction -- a problem that has gone largely undetected.
“This initiative takes a comprehensive approach through an awareness campaign aimed at seniors, their families, caregivers, and professionals,” said Linda Nablo, Commissioner of the Virginia Department for the Aging.
The funds for this grant were recovered from legal settlements that the Virginia Office of the Attorney General reached in 2008 with Caremark Rx, L.L.C., and Express Scripts Inc., two pharmacy benefits management companies. The settlements involved claims that these companies engaged in deceptive business practices.
Consumer protection is an important statutory duty of the Office of the Attorney General, and our staff can help. In an age of increased consumer issues, we all must continue to be educated and vigilant.
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