World Elder Abuse Awareness Day an occasion to check in with older loved ones

“A call to action would be to raise awareness and promote a better understanding that this is a very real issue. We need to make sure it isn’t under-reported, and that people can get the help they need when they need it. We don’t want people to feel completely alone and like they have nowhere to go. They can start with us if they need and we can refer them elsewhere.”

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as Mack points out, one in two people globally are ageist against older people, with ageism still remaining largely an invisible dilemma.

The WHO notes that ageism, and subsequently elder abuse — which is estimated to effect one in six people over 60 — is associated with earlier death, plus poorer physical health, increased risky health behaviours, including depression, and an overall lower quality of life.

(rdnewsNOW file photo)

At the Golden Circle, a hot lunch was served Wednesday, with Mayor Ken Johnston in attendance.

Mack says among the resources they have for their 1,200 members, is a safehouse which acts as a temporary getaway from abusive situations.

The Golden Circle also offers a phone line from Monday to Friday, during business hours, for people to call if they’re experiencing, or suspect someone they know is experiencing elder abuse. If outside business hours, the line recommends they call 9-1-1 or a 1-800 number dedicated to around the clock assistance for elder abuse.

The number to call is 403-346-6076. Another number, 1-855-4HELPAB (1-855-443-5722), is operated by the Government of Alberta.

“We have two distinct sides here: the first being our activities and more fun things, which get people out such as socializing, exercise, coming for meals and overall just getting into the community, which all decreases isolation,” Mack explains.

“Then there’s the side where we do our outreach; so we’re helping people dealing with older adults who require assistance with forms, perhaps elder abuse, or maybe their power has been cut off. We also have a brokered worker program which connects people to services such as housekeeping, maintenance and yard care, all with accessible pricing, and all so people can age in place.

“That’s an important caveat; it’s not for us to decide where the best place is for someone to age in. We simply facilitate that support.”

Minister of Seniors and Housing, Josephine Pon, also issued a statement about World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, saying seniors built this province and are to be cherished members of the community.

“They should feel respected, supported and safe. Sadly, this is not always the case. Elder abuse is a serious issue in our province – it is estimated that more than one in 10 Alberta seniors is a victim of elder abuse,” said Pon.

“Every single one of us has a part to play in helping to spot and stop elder abuse. You can start by simply talking about it with your friends, family and neighbours to build awareness. The more people who shine a light on this issue, the easier it will be to stop abuse before it happens.”

Pon urges Albertans to check in on the seniors in their lives and in their communities.

If you know someone who may be a victim of elder abuse, call the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818, or 911 for emergencies.

More information is at goldencircle.ca.

by Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day an occasion to check in with older loved ones

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