Today marks the10th anniversary of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and Islanders are encouraged to learn more about age discrimination and its connection to elder abuse, says Minister of Family and Human Services, Doug Currie.
“On this important day, I ask Islanders to challenge ageism in everyday life,” said Minister Currie. “An important step to preventing elder abuse is ensuring all of our relationships are respectful. We can all make a difference and reduce the risk of elder abuse when we build respect between people of different generations.”
Minister Currie says Islanders need to be aware that ageism happens when people are discriminated against because of their age. Ageism affects us all – young and old, men and women. Discrimination against older people is particularly harmful as it sends a negative message about self worth, respect and ability. But older people aren’t the only group that experiences ageism; young people can also experience discrimination. Incorrect assumptions and stereotypes act as a barrier between people, so ageism harms not only the individual but our relationships and communities. Greater respect between people of different generations can help us all appreciate the unique contribution that people can make to community life.
Four positive steps to show more respect for people of all ages:
1. Challenge myths. Begin to recognize myths by listening and reading carefully to identify when a negative attitude about age is being portrayed.
2. Recognize that a label tells you very little about what to expect from a person – how healthy they are, mental capacity, interests and abilities. Go beyond the stereotypes of age and get to know the person.
3. Learn more about aging. The more you know about aging and what to expect, the more that you will be prepared to recognize inaccuracies..
4. Watch and read media carefully to detect negative attitudes towards aging. Write an email or letter if you see an advertisement or program that features negative stereotypes.
For those who may be experiencing abuse, there are a number of resources available to Islanders including information online at stopfamilyviolence.pe.ca/seniors. “Abuse affects a growing number of older adults in Canada and each one of us has a responsibility to report suspected cases to the authorities,” said Minister Currie.
If you suspect abuse but are unsure about what to do, please call your local Adult Protection office for advice. Trained staff can provide information on community services and provide support.
Adult Protection Services locations on Prince Edward Island:
Charlottetown: 902-368-4790
Montague: 902-838-0786
O’Leary: 902-859-8730
Souris: 902-687-7096
Summerside: 902-888-8440
Broadcast version:
Monday, June 15 is the10th anniversary of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and Islanders are encouraged to learn more about age discrimination and its connection to elder abuse, says Minister of Family and Human Services, Doug Currie.
An important step to preventing elder abuse is ensuring all of our relationships are respectful. We can all make a difference and reduce the risk of elder abuse when we build respect between people of different generations.
If you suspect abuse and are unsure about what to do, please call your local Adult Protection office for advice. For those who may be currently experiencing abuse, there are resources available to Islanders including information online at stopfamilyviolence.pe.ca/seniors.