Quebec Commits $20 Million to Fight Elder Abuse (CANADA)

Quebec commits $20 million to fight elder abuse


By Cheryl Cornacchia, Montreal Gazette



June 14, 2010

MONTREAL –

Quebec will spend $20 million over the next five years on a wide range of new programs and social services aimed at fighting elder abuse, a prevalent but hidden social problem that remains largely taboo.

The issue of elder abuse was raised by more than 4,000 individuals during public hearings held in 2007 on Quebec's aging population, Quebec's minister responsible for seniors Marguerite Blais said at a news conference in Montreal on Monday.

Elder abuse is most often committed by a trusted friend or family member and can take many forms, from physical violence to sexual abuse, psychological manipulation and financial abuse, Blais said.

Among the more than 40 new measures announced Monday and expected to come online in the coming months: a province-wide elder abuse help/referral line; French-and English-language television commercials on the issue; a university research chair to improve understanding of the issue; and a network that will connect elder abuse services across the province.

The provincial government's five-year action plan will draw on resources in 13 different provincial ministries, including public security, health and social services, justice and the public curator's office to deal with the various forms of elder abuse, Blais said.

In 2009, there were 1.2 million Quebecers over the age of 65, representing 14.2 per cent of the total population. By 2031, the population of seniors is expected to reach 2.3 million and make up 25.6 per cent of the population.

© Copyright (c) The Montreal Gazette


SOURCE:   The Montreal Gazette
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