Seniors escaping elder abuse need a safe place to live. Nearly one in 10 Alberta seniors may be subjected to elder abuse, and this is unacceptable, for anyone, in any form. To help keep them safe, Alberta’s government is investing an additional $3.3 million over the next three years to provide more safe spaces for seniors seeking help.
“Elder abuse is a deeply concerning issue that affects countless seniors in our province. Nearly one in 10 Alberta seniors may be subjected to elder abuse, and this is an unacceptable reality we are determined to change. Elder abuse can take many forms, from physical harm to financial abuse, and our government is committed to taking strong action to address this issue. The new Safe Spaces program will ensure seniors have a safe place to go if needed.”
Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services
Alberta’s government is working closely with community partners to find solutions to prevent and end elder abuse. Through this new Safe Spaces initiative, more than $2 million will bring together local organizations and seniors lodges to provide shelter for seniors in rural Alberta and Indigenous communities.
Alberta’s government is also providing more than $1 million over three years to the Sage Seniors Safe House to expand spaces in Edmonton and surrounding area. This investment will increase the capacity of the Safe House program and improve access for older adults requiring additional care while seeking shelter.
“Increased access to shelter and safe spaces for older adults experiencing elder abuse is a critical step towards ensuring that all Albertans can live free from abuse. Sage values the ongoing collaboration between the Government of Alberta and community organizations in advancing the elder abuse prevention strategy.”
Karen McDonald, executive director, Sage Seniors Association
In partnership with the Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council, funding will be available for eligible communities, with a call for proposals beginning in January 2024.
Quick facts
- In Budget 2023, Alberta’s government announced $7.4 million for supports for seniors experiencing abuse.
- $4.2 million over three years for operational funding for Unison Elder Abuse Shelter in Calgary and Sage Seniors Safe House in Edmonton
- $3.2 million over three years to the Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council to support elder abuse case managers and coordinated community responses across Alberta
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