It’s a shocking fact, but 1 of 12 BC seniors have been financially abused in amounts that averaged more than $20,000.

This year, the theme of the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is to understand and to end the financial abuse of older adults. To promote awareness of this issue, the Adult Protection Education Supports Sub-committee and ReAct Adult Protection Program are hosting a panel discussion at St. Paul’s Hospital which is open to all VCH/PHC clinicians. The topic is exploring financial management options and determining the need for Public Guardian and Trustee involvement.

Event details

June 15, 2017

2:30 pm – 4:00 pm

St Paul’s Hospital Hulburt Auditorium

For more details or to register, please click on the button below.

Why is the topic of ending elder abuse important?

According to the UN Division for Social Policy and Development Ageing, virtually all countries are expected to see significant growth in the number of older persons between 2015 and 2030.  Because the numbers of older persons are growing, the amount of elder abuse can be expected to grow with it. Elder abuse remains one of the least investigated types of violence in national surveys, and one of the least addressed in national action plans.

In Canada, it is estimated that about 4 – 10 % of elderly people have experienced some form of mistreatment at home. Financial abuse is the most prevalent category, affecting 60,000 Canadian elders. The current number is probably higher due to under-reporting and the number of vulnerable adults who are under 65.

VCH Vulnerable Adult Support Resources

At VCH/PHC, many clinicians have the dual role of Designated Responders or Designated Responder Coordinators, who are responsible for investigating adult abuse and neglect and providing support and assistance.

Additionally, the VCH ReACT Adult Projection program website has resources on:

• How to recognize the abuse, neglect and self-neglect of vulnerable adults
• How to report a suspected case of adult abuse, neglect and self-neglect
• Clinical assessment tools, practice guidelines, and community services

Also, to make a report of abuse, neglect or self-neglect please phone toll free: 1 -877-REACT-99 (1-877-732-2899)

We hope you’ll join our discussion panel on June 15! For more information, please contact Yvonne Krause, Administrative Assistant, ReAct Adult Protection Program.