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World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Contributor
By Contributor
June 5th, 2019

Saturday, June 15, 2019 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. On that day, communities all over the world will sponsor events to highlight solutions to this systemic social challenge. The Nelson Elder Abuse Prevention Program and the BC Community Response Network (BC CRN) are proud to host Information tables at five local communities to participate in this national conversation.

We believe in justice for all. Yet we fail to live up to this promise when we allow older members of our society to be abused or neglected. Older people are vital, contributing members of society and their maltreatment diminishes all of us. Just as we have confronted and addressed the social issues of child abuse and domestic violence, so too can we find solutions to address elder abuse & neglect.

Policies and practices make it hard for older people to stay involved with and connected to our communities as they age. As a result, older people are more likely to experience social isolation, which increases the likelihood of abuse and neglect. We can design stronger societal supports to keep older people connected and protect them from abuse, whether financial, emotional, physical or sexual. When we address a root cause, like social isolation, we also make it less likely that people will neglect themselves (self-neglect). Older adults who are socially connected are less likely to be hospitalized, less likely to go into nursing homes and less likely to die. We can and must create healthier and safer living environments for older adults, including their homes, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. It is important for seniors to be involved in making this happen.

Get more information about how to make a difference by visiting nelsonelderabuseprevention.ca or by attending any of the following community events:

Beaver Valley:

  • June 13th 11-2
  • Tailgate Party at Fruitvale Memorial Hall & RV Park
  • BBQ, drinks, Ice Cream truck
  • Live music

Salmo:

  • June 14th 11-2
  • Seniors Wellness Fair
  • Salmo Valley Youth & Community Centre

Castlegar:

  • June 13th 11-2
  • IRIS sponsored info session & BC CRN promo materials

Nelson:

  • June 15th 10-2
  • Info table at Kootenay Country Co-op
  • Info table at Save On Foods

Kaslo:

  • June 13th 8:00-9:30
  • Open House for Safety
  • Seniors Branch Hall

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