National Seniors Council recommends more action on elder abuse
OTTAWA, ONTARIO, December 11, 2007
The National Seniors Council, an advisory body to the Government of Canada, today released its report on elder abuse. Noting that elder abuse has for too long been a largely hidden issue, the report includes a call for increased efforts to raise public awareness and to help those who work with seniors share information.
The Report of the National Seniors Council on Elder Abuse outlines the findings of five regional meetings this fall. The Council met with 50 experts and stakeholders to discuss how to best address elder abuse.
Established earlier this year, the National Seniors Council advises the Government of Canada on seniors' issues of national importance related to the quality of life and well-being of Canada's aging population. Elder abuse is one of its first priority issues.
"This government supports the work of the National Seniors Council in bringing a broad range of perspectives to this important issue," said the Honourable Marjory LeBreton, Leader of the Government in the Senate and Secretary of State (Seniors). "In the recent Speech from the Throne, the Government of Canada committed to new measures to tackle elder abuse. So the advice in this report is timely and merits careful examination."
"We were very impressed by the commitment and energy of the participants at the elder abuse meetings," said Jean-Guy Soulière, Chair of the National Seniors Council. "We hope that this report will boost the important work on elder abuse already underway across Canada."
The report acknowledges the complexity of elder abuse, which can be physical, psychological, financial or sexual in nature. Neglect can also be a form of abuse. Building on the momentum for action within the federal government, the report includes advice for action in areas such as public awareness, research, training and information sharing among those who work with seniors.
For more information on the National Seniors Council and the Report of the National Seniors Council on Elder Abuse, please visit Seniors Council Canada
SOURCE: Cleonet.ca
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