Mr. Speaker, today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The purple ribbons MPs are wearing were supplied by the west end seniors network in Vancouver.
This day is in support of the UN international plan of action, which recognizes the significant abuse of older persons in our society. Elder abuse is a shameful reality that far too many of our parents and grandparents endure.
Abuse can be physical, emotional, verbal, financial, sexual, and spiritual. Neglect is also a common form of elder abuse. It often happens within families, or when one person is in a position of trust or authority . Elder abuse occurs in the home, health care facilities, and in the community.
About 80% of elder abuse goes undetected and approximately 10% of seniors may experience abuse or neglect later in their golden years.
By raising awareness of this important issue, we can put an end to this abuse. Our seniors need to feel and be safe in their homes and in their communities and never should be victims of abuse.