Hidden and Invisible: Seniors Abuse and Neglect in British Columbia
In this report, Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie details the results of a systemic review of seniors’ abuse and neglect in British Columbia. The review examined the protections that exist for B.C. seniors, the prevalence of seniors’ abuse and neglect, the method of reporting abuse and neglect, and the response to reports of seniors’ abuse and neglect.
Report Summary
The report examines current legislative protections, assesses reporting practices, reviews five years of existing data, consults with 144 stakeholders in 25 communities throughout B.C., and surveys over 1500 British Columbians.
The review highlights that reports of abuse and neglect of people 65 and over have increased significantly in the past five years with:
Key concerns heard by the Office of the Seniors Advocate (OSA) were the lack of public awareness, a fragmented reporting and response system, gaps in service, and the need for training for those working with seniors in the community. Emerging trends and issues in B.C. were listed as sources of concern, including self-neglect, physical, social, and cultural isolation, family caregivers, on-line security, and COVID-19.
The report includes five recommendations:
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By
Office of the Seniors Advocate British Columbia
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Published
Jan 11, 2022
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Subject Area
- Mental Health and Wellness
- Social Connectedness / Social Isolation
- Caregiving & Caregiver Support
- Ageism
- Safety, Security, Finances, & Personal Planning
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Audience
- Service Providers (Non-profits, Community Organizations, Local government)
- Government
- Caregivers, Seniors & Volunteers
- Health Authorities
- Funders
- Academics
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Category
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