Campaign encourages Albertans to speak up, take action against elder abuse

The province marked World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15) with a renewed push to protect Alberta’s seniors — and a reminder that preventing abuse requires everyone’s participation.

An estimated one in 10 seniors in Alberta experiences some form of abuse, and the provincial government says that’s a number it’s determined to bring down. A new awareness campaign, launched June 15, includes translated resources in 14 languages and personal stories from survivors who hope to break the silence for others still suffering.

“Seniors are valued members of our communities and deserve to be treated as such,” said Jason Nixon, minister of assisted living and social services, in a June 13 statement.

“Ending elder abuse requires collective action — all Albertans have a role to play in recognizing the signs of abuse and taking action to spot it, stop it and reduce the risk.”

The government is investing more than $8 million over the next two years in programs designed to prevent and respond to elder abuse. That includes support for the Co-ordinated Community Response Program the expansion of the Safe Spaces Program, which repurposes vacant rooms in seniors lodges to create shelter for vulnerable older adults in rural and Indigenous communities.

“Raising awareness about elder abuse is essential to ensuring the safety and well-being of older adults,” said Joanne Blinco, executive director of the Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council.

“Our partnership with the Government of Alberta has strengthened community responses across the province.”

Common signs of elder abuse include unexplained injuries, poor hygiene, emotional withdrawal, and fear around specific people or financial discussions. Abuse can take many forms — physical, emotional, sexual or financial — and often occurs within relationships of trust or dependency.

Anyone concerned about elder abuse is encouraged to visit www.alberta.ca/elder-abuse-get-help.aspx or call the 24-hour Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818. In cases of immediate danger, call 911.

Join the conversation using the hashtag #EndElderAbuse.