Elder abuse: Know the signs, reduce the risk
Press Release
Alberta’s government is raising awareness about elder abuse and enhancing safety for seniors across the province.
As Alberta’s senior population continues to grow, Alberta’s government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring every Albertan senior can live with dignity, security and free from harm.
Elder abuse is a serious issue worldwide, including in Alberta. It is estimated that one in 10 seniors in the province experiences some form of abuse — an unacceptable reality Alberta’s government is determined to change.
Alberta’s government is taking action by collaborating with community partners to implement the province’s Elder Abuse Prevention Strategy and deliver practical, on-the-ground solutions. Over the next two years, more than $8 million will be invested in prevention and intervention efforts to protect seniors.
“Seniors are valued members of our communities and deserve to be treated as such. Ending elder abuse requires collective action — all Albertans have a role to play in recognizing the signs of abuse and taking action to spot it, stop it, and reduce the risk.”
Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services
This funding will strengthen initiatives like the Coordinated Community Response Program, expand elder abuse shelter services, and grow the Safe Spaces Program, which increases shelter access for seniors in rural and Indigenous communities by repurposing vacant rooms in seniors’ lodges.
“Raising awareness about elder abuse is essential to ensuring the safety and well-being of older adults. Our partnership with the Government of Alberta has strengthened community responses across the province, helping to prevent abuse, support those affected, and build a future where all seniors are treated with dignity and respect.”
Joanne Blinco, Executive Director, Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council
Each year on June 15, communities worldwide observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Many seniors who experience abuse feel ashamed, afraid, or unsure of where to turn to help, and this day serves as a critical opportunity to raise public awareness and encourage open conversations about elder abuse to break the silence.
On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Alberta’s government will launch a province-wide campaign to raise awareness and connect Albertans to available resources. As part of this initiative, survivors of elder abuse have courageously shared their stories to help others know they are not alone, and that help is available. To ensure broad accessibility, campaign materials will be translated into 14 languages.
All Albertans can become advocates for the safety and well-being of seniors by learning the signs of elder abuse and spreading the word. Join the conversation online using the hashtag #EndElderAbuse. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. For information and support, the 24-hour Family Violence Info Line is available by phone or text at 310-1818. A full list of help lines, services and resources can be found at Elder abuse – Get help | Alberta.ca.
Quick facts
- In Alberta, elder abuse is defined in as any intentional or reckless act or wilful and negligent disregard, occurring within a relationship of family, trust or dependency, directed at someone 65 years of age or older, that:
- causes physical harm
- causes emotional or psychological harm
- involves the misappropriation or misuse of money or other personal possessions or personal or real property
- subjects an individual to non-consensual sexual contact, activity or behaviour, or
- fails to provide the necessities of life
- Common signs of elder abuse include:
- confusion
- depression or anxiety
- unexplained injuries
- changes in hygiene
- seeming fearful around certain people
- fear or worry when talking about money
- Currently, Alberta’s senior population is more than 830,000. It is expected to exceed one million by 2035.
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