As November is Family Violence/Elder Abuse Awareness Month, it is important to recognize this is evident even here in the Kneehill area. What is most helpful is not only being aware of what this is, but also where to make connections to be of help to those who may be experiencing this. During the month of November, the color purple will be predominant in displays and there will be information available through displays and activities by Victim Services, Kneehill Regional FCSS and Seniors Outreach. The following is an example of Elder Abuse.
JANET’S STORY (financial abuse)Janet appreciated her grandson helping her to run errands. Since her husband’s death, simple things like getting groceries or getting to the bank had become difficult for her. Her grandson, Nicholas, had offered to help and for a while it seemed like the perfect arrangement. He would take her to the bank and wait while she deposited her cheque and withdrew the cash she needed. Nicholas then drove her wherever she needed to do her shopping. As winter approached, Nicholas told Janet that it would probably be much easier on her if he just did the errands for her while she stayed warm and cozy at home. Because he had been so helpful for so many months, Janet thought nothing of signing her pension cheque over to her grandson, who would make her purchases and deposit the rest in her account. It took several months to realize that Nicholas had not, in fact, been depositing the balance in her account. He did her shopping as needed, but pocketed the difference, causing Janet’s account to dwindle. It wasn’t until a cheque she had written to cover her insurance had bounced that Janet realized her grandson had been helping himself to her pension.
(The characters and events depicted in this scenario are entirely fictitious. Any similarity to actual persons, living or dead is purely coincidental.)
Source: Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council: stories of abuse (https://www.albertaelderabuse.ca/what-is-elder-abuse/stories-of-abuse)
So What are we talking about?
Family violence - Family violence is an abuse of power in a family or other trusting relationship where people rely on each other. When someone experiences family violence, their well-being, security and survival are threatened. Rates of family violence increase during and following natural disasters, public health crises and economic downturns. It is important to know where you can turn if you are experiencing family violence during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Elder abuse - As older adults are more at risk during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an increased need for them to practice social distancing and self-isolation. This may make them more vulnerable to abuse.
Who should I contact if I have a concern?
Should you require help, please contact the Family Violence Info Line (310-1818) which can assist with information on elder abuse shelters and community resources. To learn more, visit alberta.ca/seniors-and-housing.aspx. Locally contact the RCMP/Victim Services (911) or if you require some information and direction, Seniors Outreach at 403-443-2555.
SENIORS OUTREACH ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Please note the Attention/Changes within our re-launching of activities and programs.
ATTENTION: On FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 you will be able to pick up and take home the meal(s) that were ordered from the Seniors Outreach Fall Turkey Supper. Please come around at the specific time (the time given was between 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.) that was given to you when you ordered/paid for the meal(s). Drive up to the front of the Bethel EM Church – 123 – 4th Ave. South, Three Hills. A ‘runner’ will come out to your car and ask for your name/number of meals. That ‘runner’ will go in and obtain the meals and bring them out to your vehicle. We look forward to serving you in this way and are thankful for your support of Seniors Outreach!
ATTENTION: GIFTS FOR GRANDPARENTS:
Be aware that this program will look different for 2020. Instead of receiving donations of items this year, Seniors Outreach will accept financial donations for the Gifts for Grandparents program this year. Please call 403-443-2555 or 1-888-443-2555 (for the Carbon area) at our main office or connect with our Coordinators in Carbon, Linden, Acme, Trochu & Torrington) to financially support our Gifts for Grandparents program (by cheque or cash), or send an etransfer to office@seniorso.ca. We wish to be supportive of our Seniors in the Kneehill area and to continue to provide some gifting for seniors who need it. As such we will be purchasing the items for our gift bags from these donations. PLEASE PAY ATTENTION TO the Three Hills Capital, the Seniors Outreach Website, our new Facebook page, other news sources, or word of mouth regarding any further changes to our operations.
