Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2024!
Happening annually on June 15th, it recognizes the significance and impact of elder abuse as a global public health and human rights issue. It is also an opportunity for elder abuse networks and other organizations to work together and engage in dialogue with the public on how to promote dignity and respect of older adults.
Since 1994, Seniors First BC has been dedicated to informing the public about elder abuse, providing supportive programs for older adults who have experienced abuse, protecting their legal rights, and increasing access to justice. Year after year, we continue to see a consistently increasing need for information, legal advocacy, and support services for BC older adults impacted by elder abuse.
Over the past 4 years, our Seniors Abuse & Information Line had a 41% increase in the number of calls pertaining to harm experienced by older adults. In 2023 alone, it received over 7,000 calls, of which more than 2,600 were about assistance for abuse.
We are especially grateful to be working with community organizations across the province towards our vision of a British Columbia in which older adults can live with dignity, free from abuse of any kind.
Talk to a professional intake worker about concerns for the well-being of a senior calling by our Seniors Abuse & Information Line at 1-866-437-1940 weekdays 8am to 8pm. Language interpretation is available.
To support our work, visit our Canada Helps page online to donate: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/seniorsfirstbc/
Seniors First BC is a charitable, non-profit society that provides information, advocacy, and support to seniors across BC who are dealing with issues affecting their well-being.
