FREDERICTON (CNB) – The following message in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was issued by Social Development Minister Sue Stultz, who is also minister responsible for seniors, housing and community non-profit organizations:
The seniors of New Brunswick are a valuable segment of our society that deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.
On June 15, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, I encourage New Brunswickers to value and protect our seniors by learning to recognize and report any cases of elder abuse.
Elder abuse is a serious concern that can come in many forms - physical, emotional, financial, neglect or abandonment. Everyone has an important responsibility to report elder abuse and neglect to the nearest office of the Department of Social Development or to the police so that a proper investigation can be initiated.
In New Brunswick, there are programs and services in place to ensure seniors are able to live in an environment free of abuse and violence. One is the Abuse Prevention Program for Residential Facilities, which offers workshops to staff of residential facilities to help minimize the risk of elder abuse.
Elder abuse is a sad reality. However, with a greater understanding of what elder abuse is, how to spot it and what can be done about it, we can create a safer environment for our seniors.
LINK:
● Senior and Healthy Aging Secretariat: www.gnb.ca/seniors
15-06-11