Caring community members, support services, health professionals, law enforcement and community organizations can work together to make a positive difference to raise awareness about elder abuse and prevent abuse, says Community Services and Seniors Minister Valerie E. Docherty.
Minister Docherty proclaimed June 15, 2013 as Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Prince Edward Island.
“Understanding more about the abuse of older adults is an important first step in taking action against elder abuse in all Island communities,” said Minister Docherty. “I want to thank Chairperson Richard Savidant and the local World Elder Abuse Awareness Day committee and partner organizations for working to educate and inform us all about all forms of elder abuse.”
Elder abuse can affect older adults of any background, culture, religion or economic status. It can take many forms including neglect, sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, and financial abuse. Financial abuse is the most common type of elder abuse in Canada.
The theme for this year's World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event is Recognizing and Preventing Financial Abuse. Financial abuse may include the following:
• theft of cash, credit cards, bank cards or other property
• pressuring an older adult for money or use of their possessions
• misuse of power of attorney
• failing to provide agreed upon services
• frauds and scams.
Islanders are invited to attend a free community event on Saturday, June 15 at Jack Blanchard Community Centre on 7 Pond Street in Charlottetown. The event will run from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. and refreshments will be served. Admission is free but please call ahead to reserve your seat: 1-866-770-0588.
For more information to help prevent elder abuse, go to www.gov.pe.ca/sss/weaad or call 1-866-770-0588.