Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), a day to bring attention to the issue of the mistreatment of older adults. All older adults have the right to live safely and securely.
WEAAD provides an opportunity to raise awareness about elder abuse prevention and what each of us can do to protect seniors in our communities. Islanders are encouraged to stay connected and reach out to the older adults in their lives.
Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, psychological, emotional, verbal, sexual, financial, spiritual/religious and cultural, as well as neglect.
If you or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, call 911. If you believe an older adult is being abused or neglected, you can access the Adult Protection Program through Home Care, or contact Family Violence Prevention Services at 1-800-240-9894.
Quotes:
“Abuse and neglect can happen to anyone at any age. All Island seniors deserve to be treated with dignity and make their own choices. Everyone has a role to play in stopping the abuse of older adults.”
- Hon. Barb Ramsay, Minister of Social Development and Seniors
“Elder abuse is a global, social issue that affects the health and wellbeing of some of our older neighbours. Today is one day the whole world raises awareness of an issue that deserves the attention of the local community every day.”
- Audrey Morris, Chair, Senior’s Secretariat
“The abuse of older adults has a large overlap with family violence. Our services are available to anyone being harmed. We encourage people to contact us if they are feeling scared or unsafe, or if they know someone who could need help. Older adults can be very isolated and alone. We are here to help.”
- Danya O’Malley, Executive Director, Family Violence Prevention Services
Media contact:
Rebecca Gass
Senior Communications Office
Social Development and Seniors
902-213-4507
rjgass@gov.pe.ca
Additional Resources:
• World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Home - www.weaad.ca
• Canada’s National Seniors Advocacy Agency Home | CanAge
• Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse Find Help - CNPEA
Stay Connected:
Follow the Government of Prince Edward Island on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram