Become a champion of elder abuse prevention
1 in 2 people are prejudiced against older people.
Every year, on June 15th, we all join forces to remind the world that human rights don’t get old.
This World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), we’re inviting Canadians of all ages to become a Champion of elder abuse prevention by pledging to stand up for the rights of older people.
Register for the Event
We’ll be hosting our annual virtual event on June 15th, bringing together experts on aging and elder abuse, politicians and community members to discuss what we can all do to ensure older Canadians are safe from abuse and neglect.
Jun 15, 2022 from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM EST
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Take the Pledge
We all have a role to play in protecting the rights of older people. No matter where you live in Canada, you can be part of this shared journey to create a safe and supportive society.
Below are a list of actions you can take to combat ageism and elder abuse in your community (and beyond)!
To take the pledge, simply check off the actions you plan to take this year. Select as many as you like! The actions are grouped under headings based on your role within your community, so select your role and get started!
After you take the pledge, you’ll receive emails with more information you can use to take action and maximize your impact. You’ll also keep up to date on this campaign and other things you can do to help keep seniors in your community safe from harm.
Get the Facts
1 senior abused is 1 too many. Unfortunately, when it comes to showing just how urgent a problem elder abuse is, the numbers don’t lie.
- 1 in 2 people are prejudiced against older people (Global Report on Ageism, World Health Organization)
- 1 in 5 Canadians say older people are a burden on society (Report on Ageism, Revera, 2012)
- An estimated 7.5% of Canadians 55 and older experienced abuse (Into the Light National Survey on the Mistreatment of Older Canadians, National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly, 2015)
- 1 in 6 people over the age of 60 are victims of elder abuse (World Health Organization)
- Women aged 55-64 years comprised the largest proportion of victims of femicide (19%) (Call it Femicide Report, Canadian Femicide Observatory for Justice and Accountability, 2020)
- Nearly 8 in 10 seniors report age discrimination in healthcare (Report on Ageism, Revera, 2012)
- In Ontario, there was a 250% increase in calls to the Seniors Safety Line in 2020 (Assaulted Women’s Helpline, 2021)
Take Action
Let’s stand together and remind the world that rights don’t get old.
- Spread the word: Share this page with your family, friends and colleagues. You can also use the social media images and pre-written posts below.
- Take the pledge above
- Join us online on June 15th!