June 15th is commemorated world-wide each year as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a social issue that effects the health, well-being, independence and human rights of millions of elderly people.

Ev Glasser, Head of Nurses at Heartland by Revera retirement residence, says seniors are more vulnerable, particularly to phone and internet scams.

"Seniors are very vulnerable because they don't necessarily use technology the way we do, or they're not aware of how the phishing scams work. We try really hard to empower them to not fall victim to any of these scams and the abuse that comes with that," said Glasser.

Elder Abuse Awareness Day highlights one of the worst manifestations of ageism and inequality in our society. It comes in many different forms, including financial, physical, emotional, social and psychological, and often comes at the hands of a family member, or someone trusted by the victim.

Glasser says Revera will be engaging in social media today to raise awareness, and that they are committed to celebrating the ageless spirit of people.

"Any way we can empower them to live their lives to the fullest is what our goal is," she said.

The highest incidence of abuse is financial, which accounts for approximately 75 per cent of cases managed by elder abuse support services.

Glasser says Revera staff require annual mandatory training about warning signs and how to effectively deal with these types of situations.

"Revera has an annual compulsory education program for all staff regarding types of abuse, how to recognize it, and the obligation to report," she said.

Signs of elder abuse may include an elderly person feeling fearful, anxious or isolated and there may be visual injuries, as well as the absence of personal care.

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