Elder Abuse Services (Canada)

REGIONAL EFFORTS BEGIN TO PARTNER ELDER ABUSE SERVICES

BY LAURIE FRENCH
8 June 2008

The vast majority of older adults who are cared for by their families, friends, or in residential settings, are treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve. It is estimated however, that at least four percent of seniors (or roughly 100,000 Canadians) are victims of elder abuse.

Elder abuse is often defined as any action, or inaction, that harms a senior or jeopardizes his or her health or welfare, and can take the form of financial, psychological or physical abuse, or neglect. Elderly people may also be abused by health-care and social-service providers, in hospitals, the community or in residential settings. It is important to remember that cases of elder abuse may involve social as well as legal considerations. No "duty to report" exists for cases of elder abuse such as with child abuse, and capable seniors have the right to choose any interventions implemented on their behalf. However, in cases where the life, personal security or property of an individual is at imminent risk, the police must be notified.

Elder abuse is a crime. Seniors have the right to:

* Have the basic requirements of life - food, clothing, shelter, and social contact

* Live free from physical, emotional, financial, sexual and medication abuse, violation of civil/human rights and neglect

* Be informed about civil and legal rights

* Self-determination

* Live life as they wish, provided they do not infringe upon the rights and safety of others

* Participate in making decisions that affect them

* Refuse assistance intervention.

Numerous agencies will assist seniors at risk or victims of elder abuse, but no single service exists to address this complex, emotionally charged, and often unrecognized crime. An effort to collaborate and provide more consistent information and assistance is developing across the South East region, led by the Hastings & Prince Edward Prevention of Elder Abuse Network (PEAN), to connect with similar partners in communities from Belleville to Brockville. The aim is to provide standard education and materials to service providers who may encounter victims of abuse. Future efforts will be directed at a single service to call for information or assistance.

Laurie French is senior manager, Integration, Planning and Research, South East Community Care Access Centre, and chair, Hastings & Prince Edward Prevention of Elder Abuse Network.

SOURCE: TheWhig

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