A virtual information session this week will help people learn the signs and symptoms of Elder Abuse. Grey Bruce Elder Abuse Prevention has launched a campaign to help seniors experiencing mistreatment, something that is at risk of happening more often during the pandemic lockdown.
The coordinator of Violence Prevention Grey Bruce and a member of Grey Bruce Elder Abuse Prevention, Jon Farmer, says isolation is a risk factor for elder abuse and one of many that the pandemic has increased for seniors across Ontario. The Seniors Safety Line of Ontario – a 24/7, confidential and free resource that provides information, referrals and support in over 150 languages for seniors experiencing abuse – has experienced a 300% increase in calls during the pandemic.
"When people have less frequent interactions with their regular support networks, with the people who would otherwise check in, and offer an opportunity for support, then that raises the possibility that people can be abusive," he explained.
According to Farmer, there are various situations that might indicate a senior is being abused by a caregiver.
He explained, "If they are blaming the older adults, treating them like a child. If you hear threats or frequent arguments. Taking someone's money or home or possessions. Anything that looks like a domineering relationship when there is a vulnerable elder adult there, could be elder abuse."
The virtual information sessions about elder abuse take place on February 11th and March 11th.
“These workshops compliment the release of our elder abuse resource poster” said Farmer, “The posters collect information about the supports available but supports can only help when people recognize that they or a loved one is experiencing abuse”.
The one hour workshops will be presented over Zoom and include an option for participants to call in by phone if they can’t participate by video. Farmer will present the poster resource and a representative from Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario will introduce the issue of elder abuse and its many forms.
Participants will be able to ask questions and request resources during the sessions. The presentation will be offered twice and registration for each session is capped at one hundred participants.
“Elder abuse has always been an issue but with increasing risks and higher reports of it during the pandemic, it’s important that our community has the knowledge and tools we need to keep seniors safe”, Farmer added.
Registration is free and open now through the Violence Prevention Grey Bruce website, at vpgb.ca, or at Eventbrite.ca. The project is made possible by a grant from the Community Foundation Grey Bruce.
