Funding Available to Raise Awareness About Senior Abuse

Community organizations can get provincial funding to help raise awareness about senior abuse.

Contributions up to $250 are available to non-profit organizations. The application deadline for the funding is May 30 and events are to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, June 15.

"Community awareness activities can get people talking about elder abuse, educate us about the signs and help us know where to go for help if we see it," said Seniors Minister Leo Glavine. "My hope is that we also promote respect for seniors and for Nova Scotians of all ages."

The province is working with community organizations to protect seniors and make abuse easier to spot.

"We need to engage our community partners, our families and citizens of all ages, to recognize the important need to talk about senior abuse," said Sharon Elliot, seniors safety co-ordinator in Annapolis County. "This funding enhances opportunities for communities to work together. By working together, we learn together, and we can make our communities safe for everyone."

Senior abuse can be physical, emotional, financial, sexual, neglect, and/or a violation of rights and freedoms. It is especially harmful when it happens from someone they trust, such as family, friends, care workers or a service provider. Financial abuse is the most reported form of senior abuse.

Funding applications are available by calling 902-424-0065, toll-free at 1-800-670-0065, or e-mailing, seniors@gov.ns.ca . To learn more, go to http://novascotia.ca/seniors/senior_abuse_awareness_day.asp and http://novascotia.ca/seniors/stopabuse/ .