FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following statement was issued today by Social Development Minister Madeleine Dubé in observance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, June 15:

This day is an opportunity to bring this issue to the forefront. Raising public awareness about this problem is vital to ensuring that New Brunswickers learn about the various forms of elder abuse and are able to take action to prevent seniors from harm.

As our province's older population increases, we need to ensure that our seniors are cared for with compassion and understanding and treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

This annual observance serves as an excellent reminder that elder abuse can take many forms - physical, emotional, sexual, verbal, financial, or negligence - and that the earlier the abuse is discovered, the better the chances are that further victimization can be prevented.

I encourage the public to contact the Department of Social Development if they suspect a case of elder abuse. Suspicion or reason to believe an individual is being abused or neglected is the only requirement for reporting. Suspected cases can be reported 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling any regional office.

Elder abuse is a sad reality, however, by raising awareness regarding its existence, we can create a safer environment for our seniors.


13-06-14