In Alberta, an estimated one in 10 seniors is a victim of elder abuse. Elder abuse comes in many forms and whether it be neglect, violence, or emotional, psychological or financial abuse, every Albertan can play a part in stopping it. Alberta’s government is enhancing partnerships with organizations to help increase prevention supports and decrease elder abuse.
“Seniors in Alberta deserve to know that this is a safe place for them to call home. We are committed to preventing harm against seniors with our partnership with organizations throughout the province. This increase in funding is providing more opportunity to ensure that all seniors can live safe and healthy lives.”
Through Budget 2023, Alberta’s government has committed to support the Kerby Unison Centre in Calgary and the Sage Seniors Safe House in Edmonton with $4.2 million in operational funding over three years, an increase of $625,000 over last year.
In addition, $3.2 million is being provided to the Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council. These funds will flow directly to support seniors and their families who are at risk of experiencing abuse.
“This funding is key to advancing the Elder Abuse Prevention Strategy, expanding elder abuse services across the province, and ensuring older adults have timely access to services and supports. We are grateful for the Alberta government’s commitment to combating elder abuse and ensuring older adults in Alberta are protected.”
The Kerby Unison Centre and the Sage Seniors Safe House will receive funding to support intensive case management. Through this funding, the Kerby Unison Centre is also increasing the number of shelter beds to 14 from nine.
"Unison’s mission is to help seniors live well in their community. Survivors of elder abuse need specialized supports and our elder abuse program and shelter are on the front line when it comes to providing a safe refuge. We’re so thankful and excited to be working with the Government of Alberta to increase supports and awareness around elder abuse.”
“The Government of Alberta’s financial support of the Seniors Safe House and the Intensive Case Management roles are critical to Sage’s ability to respond effectively to the needs of seniors who are experiencing elder abuse, and to support them to live free of violence, neglect and abuse.”
Elder abuse prevention is part of the government’s broader efforts to support seniors and promote healthy aging. As the population continues to age, it’s more important than ever to ensure seniors can live with dignity, safety and respect.
Budget 2023 secures Alberta’s future by transforming the health-care system to meet people’s needs, supporting Albertans with the high cost of living, keeping our communities safe and driving the economy with more jobs, quality education and continued diversification
Quick facts
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The Kerby Unison Centre will receive $878,000 and the Sage Seniors Safe House will receive $553,000 in annual operating funds.
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Alberta’s senior population is more than 735,000.
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Elder abuse is defined as any intentional or reckless act or wilful and negligent disregard, occurring within a relationship of family, trust or dependency, directed at someone 65 years of age or older, involving:
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physical harm
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emotional or psychological harm
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the misappropriation or misuse of money or other possessions
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non-consensual sexual contact, activity or behaviour
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failure to provide the necessities of life
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