The world is undergoing significant demographic changes. Estimates indicate that by 2050, the global population of people above the age of 60 will exceed the number of younger people. These changes have led to a worldwide recognition of the problems and challenges that face the elderly.
Research has shown elder abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation is one of the biggest issues facing senior citizens around the world. World Health Organization data suggests that 4 to 6 per cent of elderly people suffer from some form of abuse, a large percentage of which goes unreported.
By 2036 Statistics Canada states that the number of seniors in Canada is expected to double. In Ontario, it’s estimated that approximately 24 per cent of the population will be over 65 year of age.
In Ontario, it’s estimated that between 40,000 and 200,000 seniors living in the province have experienced or are experiencing elder abuse. These numbers come from an organization called Elder Abuse Ontario.
Elder abuse can be seen as any action or inaction which causes harm to an older person. The various types of abuse include physical, psychological, emotional, sexual, financial and neglect.
Community Care is co-sponsoring an upcoming workshop to encourage awareness and discussion about this important issue. The workshop is also a research project being conducted by the University of Toronto. Two people from Community Care went to Toronto to learn how to lead the workshop. We offered the event in Nov. 2019 but had to cancel because of low registrations.
Laura McGugan and Margaret Werkhoven are the leaders for the workshop that we have rescheduled to Thurs. Jan. 16 from 1:30– 3:30 p.m. at the Wellington & District Community Centre in the Rotary Room. We encourage all people who have an interest in this topic to attend. We must have a minimum of 20 registrants to be able to run the workshop.
Topics covered during the workshop include risk factors, elder abuse in specific populations, safety planning and there will be information on free resources. All members of the community are welcome to attend. We’ll be having refreshments and sweets, too. Please call 613-476-7493 to register for this wonderful learning opportunity being held right here in The County.
Seniors Luncheon Social – Wellington on Jan. 15 & Milford on Jan. 22 Come on out and enjoy great food and conversation with old and new friends 12 p.m. on Wed., Jan. 15 in Wellington & on Jan. 22 in Milford. The menu features homemade soup, roast pork, potatoes, vegetables, lemon pie, bread and butter, and coffee or tea catered by Bill Grieve, of Wheel House and Occasions Catering. The cost is $10 per person. There will be a presentation from Lorraine Ross of the Alzheimer Society.
Reserve by the Tuesday prior at 12 noon, 613-476-7493.
-Debbie MacDonald Moynes