Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely gave a speech in the legislative assembly on June 15 in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
Lovely says she believes it’s an important topic because the Camrose constituency has almost double the provincial average number of seniors.
“Seniors helped build this province, and are the strength of Alberta,” said Lovely in her speech.
“Unfortunately, they are not always treated with the respect they deserve. Elder abuse is a serious issue in Alberta.
“Prior to 2020, we estimated nearly one in 10 Alberta seniors were subjected to some form of abuse.
“Since then, we have heard community organizations are reporting an increase in the incidence, complexity, and severity of elder abuse cases in Alberta.
“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an important occasion for us to stand together and raise our voices against elder abuse. It is also important for us to find ways to take action.”
Earlier on June 15, the Minister of Seniors and Housing announced funding of $650,000 to 16 organizations in partnership with the Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council.
The province will also be looking to update how the government responds to elder abuse.
The engagement will “open up a dialogue with stakeholders and Albertans to better understand, recognize, and prevent it at the community level,” said Lovely.
“Mr. Speaker, we know elder abuse is a complex issue. We know it will take the work of many of us, all across the province to solve it. This is why we are working closely with community partners to examine it at a local level … I believe if we stand united, we can keep all seniors safe and free from abuse.”