Citizens are encouraged to report the warning signs of elder abuse in their homes and within communities.
The Division of Ageing’s 800-OPIC hotline is available for persons to report incidents of elder abuse, mistreatment and neglect.
Anonymous reports can be made to the Division of Ageing’s hotline as well as via email at [email protected].
The appeal came from Minister of Social Development and Family Services, Donna Cox, on the observance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, commemorated annually on June 15th.
In her message to the national community, Minister Cox said the COVID-19 pandemic presented several challenges for older persons, not just in terms of its impact on their health but also in regards to their vulnerability to neglect, abandonment and abuse.
According to Minister Cox, “The pandemic has placed older persons at a greater risk of poverty, discrimination and isolation.
Recognizing the varied challenges some older person’s experience, there is a need to be more proactive in caring for and protecting them.”
As the Ministry that has been tasked with the responsibility of maintaining the social structure of our country, Minister Cox condemned incidents of abuse and appealed to members of our population to collaborate with the Government and all other stakeholders, in restoring security and dignity to our elders.
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