Work together to bring an end to elder abuse
It’s time to “Start the Conversation to Stop the Abuse of Older Adults.” We all have a role to play in preventing elder abuse.
Our demographics are shifting, and we now have more seniors in Canada than ever before, a trend that is going to continue well into the future. At the same time as that the population is growing, we know that a startling number of seniors are experiencing abusive situations. An estimated 200,000, or 10 per cent of seniors living in Ontario are victims of elder abuse and neglect.
Reflecting on the recent 2016 census data that revealed 18,110 people over the age of 65 reside in Peterborough, suggests 1,811 seniors are at-risk or experiencing abuse in our community. And that’s only part of the picture, experts believe that for every case of elder abuse or neglect that is reported, as many as 23.5 cases go unreported.
The Abuse Prevention of Older Adults Network (APOAN) of Peterborough, established in 1998, has been playing a vital role to make Peterborough a safe, respectful and supportive place for older adults to live free from abuse and enjoy independence.
APOAN works tirelessly with numerous local agencies to prevent elder abuse through awareness, information sharing and advocacy to bring awareness to this issue. Under the leadership of Catherine Pink, director of support services at Community Care Peterborough, the network continues to provide much needed education to those seniors who are vulnerable and could be at risk of abuse.
“This network promotes senior’s rights and helps ensure they are treated with dignity and respect,” Pink said.
Through the dedication of community members and agencies, including community support services, health care, police, and victim services the network navigates people towards the help they need, from professionals seeking advice to older adults experiencing harm.
The network also has a consultation team to assist agencies by reviewing options, offering suggestions for support and services in situations where seniors are living at-risk or experiencing elder abuse.
Research has shown that most often neighbours, friends, family and co-workers – are those who are closest to abusive situations and can see what is happening. They know that something isn’t right, but don’t know what to do. Action is being taken to educate people in how to support and respond safely and effectively.
On Thursday, the community is taking action to recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by hosting a FREE education day, It’s Not Right, at the Selwyn Library in Lakefield (8 Queen St.) from 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Light refreshments will also be provided.
Seniors, families and friends are invited to come and learn how to Start the Conversation with someone they are concerned about, how to help and tips to prevent elder abuse. “This local event will heighten awareness that elder abuse is a local issue that must be addressed and taken seriously. Every person in our community is encouraged to `start the conversation to stop elder abuse,” said Maggie Doherty- Gilbert, APOAN member.
WEAAD is officially recognized in 2006 as an official United Nations International Day, acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue.
In recognition of WEAAD, the City of Peterborough has demonstrated they are fully supportive in the prevention elder abuse and recognized the importance of this issue by Proclaiming World Elder Abuse Day June 15, 2017.
Together, we have the power to prevent elder abuse. For more information on elder abuse or the June 15th It’s Not Right educational event, please contact: Elder Abuse Ontario at 705-876-1122 ext. 327
Those concerned about elder abuse can also call the Seniors Safety Line at 1-866-299-1011, Senior Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or Elder Abuse Ontario at 705-876-1122 ext. 327.