FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: June 8, 2023
WORLD ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY (WEAAD) ON JUNE 15TH, 2023

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is June 15th, an official day that acknowledges the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue.

In recognition of WEAAD, the City of New Westminster has Proclaimed June 15th, 2023, Elder Abuse Awareness Day and purple lights will light up New Westminster’s City Hall. (Purple is the hallmark colour for WEAAD)

In a society that values the just treatment of all people, WEAAD reminds us that elder abuse has implications for all of us.

The Ministry of Health reports as many as 10% of BC seniors will experience some form of abuse in their later years. 1 in 12 seniors will experience financial abuse caused by close family members or trusted friends.

Seniors Services Society of BC in partnership with the BC Association of Community Response Networks (BC CRNS) works to build awareness of abuse and neglect and educate the community on how to recognize the signs of abuse and identify those who can take action.

Alison Silgardo, CEO Seniors Services Society of BC says, “We all have a role to play in protecting the rights of older people and we can all be a part of this shared journey to create a safe and supportive society.”

Seniors Services Society and the New Westminster Community Response Network invite you to join us on June 15th and TAKE THE PLEDGE TO:

  • Show support for older adults, their safety, their happiness, and wellbeing
  • Wear purple to honor survivors of elder abuse and raise awareness of this issue
  • Learn to recognize warning signs of elder abuse
  • Learn how to respond to elder abuse and refer seniors for help
  • Learn about ageism – reflect on your attitudes about getting older and your attitudes toward older adults
  • Reach out to an older adult you are concerned about. Offer your support.
  • Work with your community to make elder abuse prevention a top priority
  • Promote Elder Abuse Awareness online:

#pledgetoendageism #RightsDoNotGetOld  #WEAAD2023

For information about how to become involved with the New Westminster CRN or request workshops or education on how to recognize warning signs of abuse and neglect, how to respond, and where to refer in the community to find help, contact the New Westminster CRN Co-Ordinator, Leanore Sali at 604-520-6621.

For inspiration READ Elizabeth’s Story!

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alison Silgardo, CEO Seniors Services Society of BC
alison@sssbc.ca
Mobile: 778-798-0534

WHERE TO GET HELP:
If you suspect a senior is being abused, are a senior who is experiencing abuse, or are seeking information about elder abuse:

  • Call 911 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger
  • For non-emergency situations, referrals, information, contact: Seniors Abuse & Information Line (SAIL) 604-437-1940
  • VictimLinkBC: toll Free 1-800-563-0808
  • BC Association of Community Response Network (BC CRN): bccrns.ca