Elder Abuse Awareness Day Proclaimed

Government's dedication to stopping elder abuse was reaffirmed in three events across the province today, June 15 .

Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, Minister of Seniors, was joined by Valerie White, CEO of the Seniors' Secretariat, at a reading of the provincial Elder Abuse Awareness Day proclamation, the unveiling of the awareness campaign, and the launch of the toll-free Senior Abuse Line.

The session was held at the Royal Canadian Legion in Bridgewater. Two other ceremonies, in Cape Breton Regional Municipality and Berwick, featured local mayors reading municipal proclamations.

"Today we have reached a very important milestone, not only for seniors but for all Nova Scotians," said Ms. Bolivar-Getson. "We are reaffirming our dedication to preventing elder abuse, and are making great strides to protect our citizens and support them in maintaining a positive quality of life."

Elder abuse can affect the physical, mental, emotional or financial well-being of older people. In Nova Scotia, it is estimated that at least 5,000 to 13,000 seniors experience abuse.

The Seniors' Secretariat encourages communities across the province to help raise awareness about abuse of older adults. The secretariat's awareness campaign is part of the Nova Scotia Elder Abuse Strategy: Towards Awareness and Prevention.

The secretariat also unveiled its campaign for Senior Abuse Awareness.

The campaign is supported by a toll-free Senior Abuse Line. Seniors and others can call for information, or simply to talk about their situation. The Senior Abuse Line, 1-877-833-3377, is available Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

"Our toll-free line allows seniors the freedom and accessibility to contact specialized staff at their convenience," said Ms. White. "It gives the secretariat a one-on-one connection, and a way for elders to reach out for help that has not previously existed in Nova Scotia."

For more information on senior abuse or the toll-free line call the secretariat or visit the website at www.gov.ns.ca/scs.