Discussion Paper Released on Adult Protection Legislation

Nova Scotians are being asked to comment on proposed changes to legislation that protects adult Nova Scotians who cannot protect or care for themselves.

"Nova Scotians have a valuable role to play in shaping changes to legislation that will enhance services available to adult Nova Scotians who need help and are unable to help themselves," said Health Minister Angus MacIsaac.

About 1,300 new cases are investigated each year under adult protection legislation. About 75 per cent of referrals involve self-neglect; the remainder involve caregiver neglect or abuse. Although the adult protection legislation applies to people who are 16 years of age and older, the majority of cases involve seniors. With an increasingly aging population, the number of adults requiring long-term interventions is likely to increase.

"The abuse and neglect of older persons is a serious social problem that deserves a great deal of public discussion and dialogue in Nova Scotia, particularly given the rapid aging of our population and the projected increased incidence of elder abuse," said Valerie White, executive director, Senior Citizens' Secretariat. "I encourage all Nova Scotians to review the proposed changes to the Adult Protection Act. Your insight and opinions are important in ensuring that abused and neglected Nova Scotians are supported in a way that we all would like to be treated."

In addition to the call for public input, the discussion paper is being sent to groups and agencies that have particular concerns regarding adult protection, including the Senior Citizens' Secretariat, Disabled Persons Commission, Canadian Pensioners Concerned, physicians and the judiciary. The process will also include research and a review of similar legislation in other provinces.

"Nova Scotia has the highest rate of disability in Canada, with more than 20 per cent of adult Nova Scotians reporting a disability, and this rate will grow as our population ages," said Charlie Macdonald, executive director, Disabled Persons' Commission. "I welcome this opportunity for persons with disabilities and their advocates to participate in this very worthwhile review."

Nova Scotia's Adult Protection Act was established nearly 20 years ago and much has changed in the way services are administered and delivered. This review takes into consideration the changes in society as well as changes requested by various groups involved in adult protection.

The discussion paper is available on the Department of Health's website at www.gov.ns.ca/health or by phoning 424-0934 in Halifax, 1-800-387-6665 outside Halifax.

Nova Scotians have until Friday, Oct. 15, to submit their comments on possible changes to adult protection legislation as outlined in the discussion paper. Comments may be addressed to: Provincial Co-ordinator, Adult Protection Services, Continuing Care Branch, Nova Scotia Department of Health, P.O. Box 488, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2R8. They may also be sent by fax to 902-424-0558 or by e-mail to [email protected] .