Experts say we need to reframe the narrative and bring all generations into the discussion
Alberta’s senior population is growing faster than any other age group. Within that growth is a quiet yet devastating crisis: the mistreatment of older persons, more commonly known as elder abuse.
According to Alberta’s provincial statistics, the proportion of people aged 65 and older grew from 12 percent to 16 percent between 2013 and 2023.
This growing population is facing a silent epidemic that often stays hidden behind closed doors. That is why Carya and other organizations are working to amplify the conversation this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, on June 15.
At Carya, we are fortunate to connect with older adults regularly. We share food, conversation, laughter, and special moments with them every day. These invaluable experiences are why we are so grateful to serve this community across our city. And because we offer a wide range of services for older adults, we see firsthand the complex situations that can arise, including elder abuse.
Elder abuse is complex and can be deeply entangled in both personal and systemic factors. According to the Canadian government, it’s estimated that one in ten senior Canadians experiences abuse, and only one in five report it.
How can we reduce not only the statistics, but also the stigma that victims face in coming forward?
Dr. Rose Joudi is the program manager for The Way In Network, a collaboration of Calgary-based agencies that Carya is part of. This network is dedicated to enhancing quality of life and access to services and support for vulnerable older adults living in the community and their families.
She emphasizes the importance of bringing younger generations into conversations about aging and its impacts. Doing so helps normalize these discussions and prevents them from feeling uncomfortable.
“The mistreatment of older people isn’t an issue that we need to talk with just older people about,” said Joudi. “I work with ethnocultural communities, and in some of the conversations I’ve had, they ask me, ‘Where are the young people? Why are you telling us about something that we know is impacting us? Why aren’t you inviting the younger people from the community?’”
Joudi adds that when younger generations discuss aging and elder abuse with older adult family members, neighbours, and the community, “It gives them an opportunity to know how to navigate these conversations as they grow older.”
Elder abuse can take many forms including physical, emotional, financial, and systemic. It often involves a violation of trust and dignity.
Growing the conversation is important as the issue becomes more complex.
Carya has been involved with the Elder Abuse Response and Prevention Team (EART) with the Calgary Police Service and Unison since 2011. Verbal, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse continues to be the most predominant file type for EART.
We are also seeing more situations where older adults are living with adult children who face mental health or addiction challenges. Other risks arise in situations involving dementia and partner harm. Social isolation and caregiver stress are significant contributing factors.
Joudi says we all need to become aware of the signs of elder abuse — small or large. Using open, empowering dialogue can lead to greater awareness and insight on what to look for.
“We have come to this realization that the words that we have been historically using are what we now call deficit lens or deficit-based words. Those words talk about what people cannot do, what they’re incapable of doing, and what that does sometimes is it strips agency, independence, and competency from people.”
The federal government says terms like “feeble,” “senile,” and “the aged” are ageist and reinforce incorrect perceptions.
“My approach would be more strength-based, more about what people can do, more about what people’s strengths and capabilities and competencies look like, and it gives people agency,” explained Joudi.
Last year, Carya’s Criminal Justice Navigators — a partnership with CPS and Unison— provided specialized support to 117 victims facing the most serious cases of elder abuse, including those involving criminal charges and justice system involvement. We also consulted with 71 professionals seeking guidance and support.
Action against elder abuse should not be taken only by those in the social service industry or the police. It’s a responsibility we all hold.
We can all take on a role in tackling this issue, no matter our age. We can recognize the signs, reduce the risk, and grow the conversation.
Because when we protect older adults, we strengthen our communities.
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