The Sunshine Coast Community Response Network (CRN) is a local group whose goal is to create a safety net to prevent the abuse, neglect, and self-neglect of vulnerable adults through public education and a coordinated response by its members, health and social service organizations.
CRN’s message for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15 is that seniors are valued members of society, convey a wealth of experience and wisdom in our community and deserve to live with dignity and respect. It is our collective responsibility to ensure they live safely and fully in a community that cares about them.
Members of the CRN were at the Pender Harbour Health Centre on June 11 to spread this message, and will be at an information table in the Sechelt Hospital lobby on June 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to share information and answer questions from the public and staff.
CRN coordinator Vicki Dobbyn states, “Since elder abuse can often be hidden, everyone has an important role in recognizing and responding to signs of possible abuse and neglect.”
Although often unreported, the Ministry of Health reports that as many as 10 per cent of B.C. seniors will experience abuse in its many forms, whether it is financial (the most common), physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
For general questions about adult abuse or neglect, 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 (VCH) Mental Health Services at 604-885-6101 or Home and Community Care at 604-741-0726. All calls are confidential.
The local CRN, a member of the BC Association of CRNs, can provide a handbook called “Recognizing and Responding to the Abuse and Neglect of Vulnerable Adults” and can arrange workshops on this topic. It can also present a webinar called “Spotlight on Ageism” as ageism can contribute to the abuse and neglect of older adults. For more information about the CRN and its resources contact the coordinator at [email protected].
