Statement by Minister Ramsay on World Elder Abuse Day and Seniors Loneliness Awareness Week

Minister of Social Development and Seniors Barb Ramsay issued the following statement:

"Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and June 15 – 21 is also Seniors Loneliness Awareness Week. These important issues are closely connected. When we stay in touch, we help older adults feel safe and supported.

I encourage Islanders to take a moment this week to check in on someone in your life. Call a parent, visit a grandparent, or have a chat with a neighbour. Small acts of kindness can go a long way.

Mistreatment of older adults can be hard to spot, and it can take many forms. Types of abuse include: 

• Gender-based mistreatment
• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Financial abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect, by self or others

Earlier this year, our government launched a campaign called Connection is Care. Islanders may have heard it on the radio or seen it on social media, on transit buses and bus shelters, or in public government spaces. As the campaign comes to a close, the important message continues: staying connected is one of the best ways we can look out for one another, and I encourage every Islander to do so.

If you are looking for supports or services related to social connection or addressing mistreatment of older adults, a great first step is reaching out to 211 PEI. This free, confidential service is available 24 hours a day in multiple languages. You can access it by visiting 211 online, or by calling or texting 2-1-1. 

By staying connected we can help ensure that seniors feel safe, respected and valued every day."

 

Media contact:

Hillary Proctor
Department of Social Development and Seniors
hproctor@gov.pe.ca