Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs (SACPA)

Elder abuse is any action or inaction by self or others that jeopardizes the health or well –being of an older adult. Elder abuse can take several forms including financial, emotional, physical, sexual, medication and neglect, with more than one type of abuse often occurring at the same time. Elder abuse can include the infliction of physical injury, restraint, financial exploitation, threats, ridicule, insult or humiliation, withholding medication, unwanted touching or sexual contact, forced isolation (physical or social), or forced change in living arrangements. It may also include neglect, which is defined as the refusal or failure to care for an older person. The Lethbridge Elder Abuse Response Network (LEARN) is a collaboration of human services organizations that responds to and provides education, awareness and advocacy for everyone that may be affected by abuse. The network consists of a full-time Case Manager, a part time Coordinator, a Steering Committee made up of representatives from Alberta He