Elder Abuse is any action from a trusted relationship that ends in harm or distress to an older person. Commonly recognized types of elder abuse include physical, psychological, and financial.
June 15 marks World Elder Abuse and Awareness Day, and day specifically highlighting the importance of protecting our older generation.
“We have also provided more than $1.3 million in provincial funding from 2020 to support the Council to Reduce Elder Abuse, lead World Elder Abuse and Awareness Day events, raise public awareness of senior and Elder abuse and host informational workshops throughout the province.” says Mable Elmore, the Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors’ Services and Long-Term Care.
In some situations elder abuse can happen to gain power and control over an older person, it can result as the intimidation or isolation of an individual.
Those who are taking advantage of seniors are more likely to be a family member, a friend, or someone who provides assistance. The abuser can become dependent on the older adult for money, food, or shelter.
Many older adults feel embarrassed to speak up about their abuse, or may not know of resources to help.
Organizations like Seniors First have crisis hotlines, SAIL (Seniors Abuse and Information Line), to provide assistance on emergency issues an elderly might be facing.
This World Elder Abuse and Awareness Day, people are asked to raise awareness by wearing the colour purple or passing out the official flower, Irises.
If you’re looking for more information on elder abuse, or accessing help, you can go to the link here.
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