Joint Statement of Partnership: Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario and Ontario Age-Friendly Communities Outreach Program

On the occasion of the International Day of Older Persons, recognized annually, on October 1st, Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario (EAPO) and the Ontario Age-Friendly Communities Outreach Program are pleased to announce a joint partnership.

This collaborative relationship strengthens our commitment to promote respectful, healthy aging and create a greater awareness of key considerations, to help older adults in all communities, remain safe, secure, and free from abuse, including the impacts of ageism on their quality of life.

Elder abuse is a growing and serious social injustice. Reports indicate that 8-10% of older adults experience or are at-risk of abuse and neglect. This public health issue is a violation of human rights and carries with it significant social consequences.

EAPO is committed to working with the Ontario Age-Friendly Communities Outreach Program to help prioritize and integrate elder abuse prevention strategies into age-friendly planning and implementation. Together we wish to engage communities in conversations that will help us all better understand the challenges and opportunities for addressing elder abuse at the local level.

To achieve this, older adults in all communities need access to reliable information and supports that help break down barriers and stereotypes which can impact healthy aging. In the months ahead, we are mobilizing our collective resources, to provide educational forums that will help renew the focus on positive aging, ensuring older adults feel safe, respected and have a strong voice in all communities across Ontario.

Elements of this partnership include the following:

• Presentations and educational forums – Webinars & Workshops
• Presentations at Regional AFC- EAPO events
• Regular contributions of articles, newsletters/e-Bulletins to our respective audiences
• Cross-promotion of initiatives via Social Media channels to raise awareness
• Building capacity through volunteer connections to learn about elder abuse prevention

To read the official joint statement document co-signed by Dr. John Puxty, Director of the Centre for Studies in Aging and Health and by Marta C. Hajek, Executive Director of Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario, click here.

To learn more about the Ontario Age-Friendly Community Outreach Program, click here.

To learn more about Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario, click here.