Elder Abuse Prevention

Action Plan Commitment: Ensure the protection and safety of seniors through consultation and the development of a provincial elder abuse prevention, identification and response strategy by December 2012.

What does it mean for me?

Elder abuse is a serious issue that undermines the independence, dignity, health, and sense of security of the victim. The consequences can be devastating for seniors and their families. Together to Reduce Elder Abuse – B.C.’s Strategy (TREA Strategy) is a call for everyone to commit to reducing elder abuse.

If you or a senior you care about is being abused, it is important that you have someone to talk to. Beginning in July 2013, you will have increased access to an elder abuse phone line, which will make it easier for you to get information, advice, emotional support and assistance to prevent or deal with a situation of elder abuse.

Information kits will help community groups, front-line service providers and individuals recognize a situation of elder abuse and encourage seniors to have the confidence to speak out or to ask for assistance.

Our collective goal is to foster a shift in societal and cultural attitudes about aging and elder abuse, and ultimately reduce the incidence of elder abuse in our communities.

Links:

• Together to Reduce Elder Abuse – B.C.’s Strategy (PDF, 665KB)
• Information Kit Brochures and Fact Sheets
• Elder Abuse Prevention Webpage www.gov.bc.ca/elderabuse
• News Release: Multi-sector Council to Reduce Elder Abuse hosts inaugural meeting (PDF, 267KB)