A Safe Space for Seniors Dealing With Abuse

Seniors are ending up in dire straits after financial issues forced them to change their living arrangements, say officials with two Alberta shelters.

"Due to their finances, some older adults need to find a roommate," said Michele Markham, manager of Edmonton’s Sage Safe House for Older Adults. "Things go south and the roommate is in a position of power and control.”

The regional director of Calgary’s Unison at Kerby Centre says it's a similar trend there. “We do see more of that. In order to save money people are getting a roommate,” said Karen Whiteman.

Even with the recent change, they say cruelty from a family member is still the main reason seniors seek temporary shelter.

Markham said, "Typically the majority of people abusing older adults are an adult child or a grandchild. The next are victims of spousal abuse."

“At least half our clients are under 65, if not more,” said Whiteman, adding the increase in younger clients creates challenges, because, “they don’t get the old age benefits and they don’t qualify for seniors housing.”

The two centres received welcome news this April, as the provincial government confirmed $4.2 million in funding over the next three years--an increase of $600,000 from last year.

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