The Pennsylvania Department of Aging has intervened in the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) after concerns emerged about staffing shortages and delays in investigating cases involving older adults. State specialists worked tirelessly for nine months to assist PCA in improving its compliance with state regulations and addressing cases of abuse and neglect. Despite recent improvements, PCA continues to struggle with many cases remaining unresolved past the state deadline and deaths occurring during open investigations.
Spotlight PA obtained data showing ongoing problems within PCA, including failures to comply with safety standards and delays in investigations. The agency, which receives significant taxpayer funding, has hired a private contractor to help manage its caseload and has increased its number of investigators to achieve reduced caseloads. However, the state Department of Aging has faced criticism for not holding PCA accountable for these ongoing issues.
Former state protective services specialist Peter Hans has urged for a more significant incentive for compliance by reallocating funding from non-compliant agencies to more effective entities. Hans has raised concerns with various state offices, including the offices of the inspector general, attorney general, and auditor general, to address the urgent need for action. Despite these efforts, the Department of Aging has not taken punitive action against PCA or implemented greater oversight measures.
Overall, there are ongoing challenges within the PCA that are affecting the safety and well-being of older adults in Philadelphia. The situation has prompted calls for stronger accountability measures and more decisive action to ensure the protection of vulnerable individuals.
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