In 2006, the United Nations officially proclaimed June 15 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day to bring greater recognition of abuse and neglect of older adults. The Sunshine Coast Community Response Network (CRN), a member of the BC Association of Community Response Networks, recognized this day by providing information displays at the Pender Harbour Health Centre, Sechelt Hospital and at a meeting of the Seniors Planning Table. Members of the local CRN were on hand to answer questions and shine a light on this important issue.
While elder abuse often goes unreported, the Ministry of Health reports that as many as 10 per cent of B.C. seniors will experience some form of abuse in their later years, that one in 12 seniors will experience some form of financial abuse, and that this abuse is usually caused by family members or trusted friends.
Local health and social service organizations, government agencies, and community volunteers form the Sunshine Coast CRN. This group provides informational workshops to build awareness, and to educate workers, friends, family members, and neighbours in contact with vulnerable adults, in how to recognize the signs of abuse and neglect, and where to look for support. The CRN recently held two roundtables for service providers and community organizations to promote collaboration and coordination of responses to the abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults.
April Struthers, regional mentor for the CRN, said, “The CRN highlights the need for prevention activities that allow seniors in the community to live in safety and dignity. We all have a role to play in creating the safe, supportive communities that we all want to live and grow old in. “
For questions about the abuse or neglect of an adult, call the Seniors Abuse Information Line at 1-866-437-1940. If you are concerned about a possible abuse or neglect situation, call Vancouver Coastal Health Mental Health Services at 604-885-6101. For more information about the Sunshine Coast CRN call coordinator Vicki Dobbyn at 604-740-7061.
– Submitted
