You know them. They’re your parent, your grandparent, your aunt, your uncle, your neighbor, or your friend. They’re older adults, and they’re becoming an increasingly large part of our population. Globally, the number of people over the age of 60 is expected to more than double, from 542 million in 1995 to about 1.2 billion in 2025. Canada’s fastest growing population is over the age of 65. Closer to home, older adults are expected to outnumber children under the age of 14 in Calgary by the mid-2030s. But as their numbers grow, the frequency of elder abuse is rising as well, putting the older adults we care about at risk.

Elder abuse comes in many forms and can be devastating for a subset of the population that is often vulnerable. Because this type of abuse often plays out within families, far too many victims suffer in silence. You may not hear your loved ones talking about elder abuse, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t happening.

Wednesday, June 15^th 2016 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Recognized worldwide, this is a day to speak out about a subject on which most of us are far too often silent. Join Carya at Olympic Plaza on the 15^th to listen to speakers, learn about community resources and help start a wider conversation about this important issue.  Bring your lunch, wear purple and join with fellow Calgarians who want to eliminate elder abuse in our city and around the world.

Let’s come together on June 15^th, but once that day has passed, let’s make sure the conversations about elder abuse don’t die out. Talk to the older adults in your life, and watch for behaviour that seems out of character. If you suspect a case of elder abuse, or just want someone to talk to about a situation you’re concerned about, call our Elder Abuse Resource Line at 403-705-3250. Above all, let the older adults in your life know that you’re there to support them. Let’s make sure the seniors we love are living the life they deserve.