The federal minister of state for seniors will be in White Rock at the end of the month to speak on issues affecting seniors in Canada.
Alice Wong – MP for Richmond – will address a six-point action plan on elder abuse, presented to her by Jack Mar, the White Rock chapter chair of the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP), at the Elk’s Hall, 1469 George St., on Nov. 25.
The six points – which were also presented to federal minister of justice Rob Nicholson earlier this year – include specialized investigating support for existing criminal offences and increased sentencing for elder abuse, modeled on existing provisions for hate crimes and breach of trust.
CARP communications director April Lewis says that while there has been some improvement, there is room for much more.
“Minister Wong announced tougher laws on people found guilty of elder abuse, but there has been no definitive action on the other points,” Lewis told Peace Arch News.
She noted elder abuse is not restricted to physical harm, and that the most common abuse facing seniors today focuses on their wallets.
“Financial abuse is huge for seniors. If it happens, what are you going to do and who are you going to tell? It’s difficult, especially when you’re elderly and feeling disempowered,” Lewis said.
CARP provides a forum for seniors across the country.
The event will begin with wine and cheese at 6 p.m. followed by a presentation by Minister Wong at 7 p.m. For more information or to RSVP, contact April Lewis at aprillewis.carp@gmail.com or call 604-536-8717.