What is the extent of Elder Abuse in Cochrane?

What is the extent of elder abuse in Cochrane?

Since laying the groundwork and establishing a multi-agency Community Led Elder Abuse Response (CLEAR) over five years ago, the seriousness of the issue has become much clearer.

During the symbolic planting of the lilac tree to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, Big Hill Haven officials presented some numbers, how they can help, and encouraged the community to keep an eye out for our elders.

"It's a serious issue, and it's a big issue in Cochrane," says Big Haven Haven executive director Wanda McGinnis. "Last year, 36 per cent of the individuals we supported with both shelter space and outreach were seniors, 55 and up."

The impact of the pandemic, followed by the recent increased pressure on the financial well-being of families has made the situation even more volatile.

"One of the concerns we have is after the pandemic, lots of seniors relocated to the community to be close to extended family because the pandemic taught us that if you don't live close, and you're not part of each other's circle, you might not get to see each other for a long time.

"And now, as financial pressures are increasing on families, what we're seeing is, and not just with our senior populations, those intimate relationships are becoming really volatile. Pressures and stresses are increasing on families and so that certainly is impacting seniors who are vulnerable, isolated, and have moved to spend additional time with families, providing childcare, you name it. It's a layered problem."

Five years ago, no stats were available specific to Cochrane, and the coordinated community response was in its infancy. Now the extent of the abuse is becoming more evident and is likely more common than the cases reported.

While more are aware that help is available, it needs to spread further. 

"We continue to work hard to try and make sure that people know that Big Hill Haven is a resource in the community because one of the challenges is sometimes people want to reach out, but they don't know who to call."

"So we want to make sure people know that Big Hill Haven is here to support you. Our phone number is 403-796-6564."

McGinnis says they are encouraging people to keep an eye out for those they believe are being subjected to one of the many forms of elder abuse (see brief list below).

"We want to educate the community about what they can watch for," she explains. "If there's someone that they're worried about in their circle, maybe a neighbour, maybe a friend, let us know. If you're curious or you're worried, also reach out to us. We're going to support you with some of those hard questions, and we're here to provide support."

Big Hill Haven co-founder Patti Fisher spoke at the ceremony that was also attended by representatives of the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day committee, Mayor Jeff Genung, town councillor Susan Flowers, FCSS, Alberta Health Services, Seniors on the Bow, and Bethany Cochrane.

Mayor Jeff Genung and town councillor Susan Flowers planted the lilac tree to mark the day. It's something that has occurred in Cochrane at several locations year after year. This year it was at the Cochrane Community Health Centre, 60 Grande Blvd.

Mayor Jeff Genung and town councillor Susan Flowers planted the lilac tree this year.

Mayor Genung says every year he gains further awareness of the impact it has on our residents.

"We don't want this to happen obviously," says Genung, "but it is occurring in our community, and the more we can get the message out of the signs and having a safe environment in our community for our seniors is dear to my heart."

At sundown, the Jack Tennant Memorial Bridge was lit in purple, the colour used worldwide to symbolize elder abuse.

Alberta's elder abuse prevention strategy updated the definition of elder abuse to include any intentional or reckless act or wilful and negligent disregard, occurring within a relationship of family, trust, or dependency, directed at someone 65 years of age or older, that:

• causes physical, emotional, or psychological harm;
• involves the misappropriation or misuse of money or other personal possessions or personal or real property;
• subjects an individual to non-consensual sexual contact, activity, or behaviour; and
• fails to provide the necessities of life.

Specific information on elder abuse and where to turn for help in Cochrane can be found here