World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Today, June 15, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Elder abuse thrives in secrecy, isolation and silence, making it everyone's responsibility to stand up for the human rights of older adults. Awareness of elder abuse is one of the best ways to prevent it.

This year, the province provided funding to support a two-week social media campaign by 14 seniors' safety programs to raise awareness in communities.

Elder abuse can take many forms - financial, emotional, psychological, physical or sexual. It can also involve neglect, which is means failing to provide the necessities of life such as food, clothing, safe shelter, medical attention or personal care.

'We all may know someone experiencing abuse,' said Seniors Minister Kelly Regan. 'Ageist attitudes and beliefs can cause people to treat older adults as if they are less important or valued. These attitudes allow people to believe they have a right to ignore, control or make decisions for an older adult. They do not. I encourage Nova Scotians to check on older family members and neighbours who may be feeling lonely or isolated and ask how they are doing. Your intervention can make a difference.'

If people know of seniors experiencing abuse or having difficulties, they can call their local police agency, 211 or reach out to the seniors' safety program in their area for advice and information.

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