Elder abuse may occur in various forms, but not in purple in Fraser Lake last month.
On June 15, Fraser Lake’s senior citizens dressed in purple style for a Funny, Fabulous and Feisty Photo Shoot at Autumn Services to celebrate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
It’s the second year for Fraser Lake to host awareness-raising event, as the social services centre joined the British Columbia Association of Community Response Networks — which support communities who are experiencing adult abuse — two years ago, said Elaine Storey of Autumn Services. Networks members are trained over two days in educating community members on elder abuse.
Referencing Seniors BC, Storey explained that elder abuse can be psychological, financial, or physical, and the three main types of elder abuse are abuse, neglect, and self-neglect. Financial exploitation is the most commonly reported form of abuse of seniors.
“It can be children or grandchildren taking things, or some seniors not taking care of themselves,” she said. “There are people being abused every day…and sometimes aren’t aware they are being abused.”
In purple cardigan and pants for the event, May Reid, 87, said she’s aware of elder abuse, though she doesn’t personally know those who has been abused.
“I’m not being abused,” Reid said. “My family has redone my house…I have great kids.”
However, she is weary on the idea of nursing homes and their negative reports.
“They may be understaffed, or helpers can’t always be there,” Reid said. “You also don’t have all your marbles there to give your opinion, and you’re forced to do something you don’t want to.”