Based on police-reported data, nearly 2,800 seniors, aged 65 years and older, were the victims of family violence in 2010. Currently, there are approximately 5 million people aged 65 and over in this county. It is projected that by 2016, that number will increase by 5%. As this segment of the population increases, so does the potential for incidents of elder abuse.
According to Statistics Canada, seniors were most at risk from friends or acquaintances (73 victims per 100,000 seniors), followed by family members (61 victims per 100,000) and strangers (51 victims per 100,000). Grown children were most often identified as the perpetrator of family violence against seniors
“The RCMP is deeply committed to the safety and well-being of older adults in the communities we serve,” said Sgt. Robert Cooke of “D” Division RCMP. “We are always looking for ways to prevent elder abuse and to increase awareness of what to do if it happens.”
If you suspect an elder that you know is being abused, please contact your nearest RCMP Detachment immediately. For signs of elder abuse or for more information, you can visit www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
In addition, many communities throughout Manitoba are hosting WEADD events on June 15. Please visit www.weaddmanitoba.ca to find out more.
