I was struck by the article in the Sun Journal on Oct. 19 about the state turning its focus onto elder abuse.

I am sure this is a problem here in Maine and needs attention, but those in the state who are broadcasting the need for attention are, in my opinion, hypocrites. All they really want is to get their greedy hands on federal dollars.

If this state and its Legislature were really concerned about elder abuse, they would do something about the high taxes that create situations where elders are severely frightened and fearful about losing their beloved homes due to high property taxes. The homestead exemption and other exemptions the state uses are shifting the load, not fixing the problem.

Many young and working people are struggling to keep up, but elders in their 70s, 80s and 90s who still live in the family home are now paying more in taxes each year.

Many elders are deeply worried about how to keep up with the high cost of heat and their property taxes. One widow, more than 85 years old, has told me that her latest tax bill took her breath away when it arrived.

I believe that the state of Maine is creating elder abuse with its tax policy.

When is it going to stop abusing the elders?

George A. Fogg, North Yarmouth