What age is considered elderly in Tennessee? An overview of state programs and laws

According to the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability, programs for older Tennesseans define "elderly" as age 60 and over. However, the official legal definition for elder abuse is often tied to age 70 or older, while eligibility for other state services can vary. This means the answer to what age is considered elderly in Tennessee? is not uniform but depends on the specific context of the law or benefit.

Quick Summary

The age considered elderly in Tennessee varies depending on the law or program in question, from age 60 for many services to age 70 for certain elder abuse definitions. It's crucial to check specific eligibility requirements for state-funded assistance or legal protections.

Key Points

• Variable Age Definitions: The age considered elderly in Tennessee changes depending on the specific law or service, with no single universal age.

• Services Start at 60: Many state services, including those from the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability and Area Agencies on Aging and Disability (AAADs), begin for those aged 60 and over.

• Elder Abuse Definitions Range: The definition of 'elderly' for legal protections varies; for financial exploitation, it can be 65 or older, while for certain criminal offenses, it is 70 or older.

• Focus on Vulnerable Adults: Tennessee law also protects 'vulnerable adults,' defined as anyone 18 or older with a mental or physical dysfunction that prevents them from self-protection, regardless of age.

• TennCare CHOICES Age: For the state's long-term care program, TennCare CHOICES, seniors become eligible at age 65, provided they meet additional medical and financial requirements.

• Reporting is Key: If you suspect elder or vulnerable adult abuse, reporting it to Adult Protective Services is crucial, regardless of the victim's specific age.

• Outreach and Information: The Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging oversees many programs and offers an Information & Assistance line at 1-866-836-6678 to help residents navigate available services.

Varying Definitions of “Elderly” Under Tennessee Law

In Tennessee, the definition of "elderly" is not uniform, but rather dependent on specific laws and programs. This can lead to confusion when determining eligibility for services or legal protections.

Elder Abuse and Financial Exploitation

Age definitions for elder abuse vary. Under the Elderly and Vulnerable Adult Financial Exploitation Prevention Act, an "elderly adult" is 65 or older. However, certain criminal statutes define an "elderly adult" as 70 or older. The Tennessee Adult Protection Act uses "advanced age" of 60 or older. These differences impact the application of legal protections.

State Programs and Assistance

State programs often use a lower age threshold. The Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability (TCAD) and Area Agencies on Aging and Disability (AAADs) primarily serve individuals 60 and over, providing services like Home and Community Based Services (HCBS), nutrition, transportation, and caregiver support. The TennCare CHOICES program for long-term care is available to seniors age 65 and older, provided they meet medical and financial criteria.

Comparison: Age-Based Definitions in Tennessee

This table highlights the different age requirements under various state programs and laws:

Program or Law	Definition of "Elderly" / Age Requirement	What it Governs
Tennessee Adult Protection Act (TPA Act)	Advanced age of 60 years or older	Elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation
Tennessee Code § 39-15-501 (Crimes)	Elderly adult is 70 years of age or older	Criminal offenses like abuse, neglect, and exploitation
Elderly and Vulnerable Adult Financial Exploitation Prevention Act	Elderly adult is 65 years of age or older	Enhanced penalties for financial exploitation
TCAD Programs (e.g., Home-Delivered Meals)	Generally 60 years of age or older	Broad range of supportive services via AAADs
TennCare CHOICES (Long-Term Services)	65 years of age or older	Home, community, and nursing facility care options
Senior Citizen Property Tax Relief	65 years of age or older	Qualification for property tax assistance based on income

The “Vulnerable Adult” Distinction

Tennessee law also defines a "vulnerable adult" as anyone 18 or older with a physical or mental dysfunction preventing them from managing resources or protecting themselves. This offers protection regardless of age if the individual meets this criteria. Adult Protective Services investigates reports for both elderly and vulnerable adults.

Conclusion: Navigating the Complexities

The age considered elderly in Tennessee varies based on the specific legal or programmatic context, ranging from 60 to 70. Understanding these different definitions is crucial for accessing resources and protections. For assistance, contact the Department of Disability and Aging or a local AAAD.

What to Do If You Suspect Elder Abuse or Financial Exploitation

Report suspected abuse of elderly (over 60) or vulnerable (over 18 with disability) adults to Adult Protective Services. Call 911 for emergencies. Gather details and report anonymously if desired. For legal questions, the Senior Legal Helpline offers free counsel.

Understanding Tennessee's nuanced definitions helps ensure the well-being of its older residents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age for senior services through the Tennessee Commission on Aging?

The Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability provides services and leadership for adults age 60 and older. Many of its related programs, like Home and Community Based Services (HCBS), are available to individuals who meet this age threshold and other needs-based criteria.

Does the age for elder abuse protection vary in Tennessee?

Yes, the age for elder abuse protection can vary depending on the specific law. For certain crimes, an 'elderly adult' is defined as a person 70 or older, while for financial exploitation laws, the age is 65 or older. Broader protective acts cover individuals with 'advanced age' of 60 or older.

What does 'vulnerable adult' mean in Tennessee?

A 'vulnerable adult' in Tennessee is a person age 18 or older who, due to a mental or physical disability, is unable to fully manage their resources, perform daily tasks, or protect themselves from harm. This classification extends legal protections to adults regardless of whether they meet a specific elderly age definition.

At what age do Tennessee residents become eligible for TennCare CHOICES?

Seniors in Tennessee become eligible for the TennCare CHOICES program at age 65. Eligibility is also contingent on meeting certain medical and financial criteria to qualify for long-term services and supports.

What is the age for property tax relief for seniors in Tennessee?

To qualify for property tax relief in Tennessee, homeowners must be 65 years of age or older by December 31 of the applicable tax year and meet certain household income limits.

How can I report elder abuse or exploitation in Tennessee?

To report suspected abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of an elderly or vulnerable adult in Tennessee, contact the Adult Protective Services hotline. Reports can be made anonymously. If the situation is an emergency, call 911 immediately.

Is a person over 60 but under 70 protected by all elder abuse laws?

Not necessarily all. While they are protected under the broad Adult Protection Act, which defines 'advanced age' as 60 or older, they might not fall under specific criminal statutes that use a definition of 70 or older. However, if they have a qualifying disability, they may be protected as a 'vulnerable adult' regardless of their exact age.