Strengthening Support for Seniors at Risk

Alberta’s government is supporting at-risk seniors with $7.4 million over three years to reduce elder abuse and increase prevention supports.

In Alberta, an estimated one in 10 seniors is a victim of elder abuse. Elder abuse comes in many forms and whether it be neglect, violence, or emotional, psychological or financial abuse, every Albertan can play a part in stopping it. Alberta’s government is enhancing partnerships with organizations to help increase prevention supports and decrease elder abuse.

“Seniors in Alberta deserve to know that this is a safe place for them to call home. We are committed to preventing harm against seniors with our partnership with organizations throughout the province. This increase in funding is providing more opportunity to ensure that all seniors can live safe and healthy lives.”

Jeremy Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

Through Budget 2023, Alberta’s government has committed to support the Kerby Unison Centre in Calgary and the Sage Seniors Safe House in Edmonton with $4.2 million in operational funding over three years, an increase of $625,000 over last year.

In addition, $3.2 million is being provided to the Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council. These funds will flow directly to support seniors and their families who are at risk of experiencing abuse.

“This funding is key to advancing the Elder Abuse Prevention Strategy, expanding elder abuse services across the province, and ensuring older adults have timely access to services and supports. We are grateful for the Alberta government’s commitment to combating elder abuse and ensuring older adults in Alberta are protected.”

Shantel Ottenbreit, chair, Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council

The Kerby Unison Centre and the Sage Seniors Safe House will receive funding to support intensive case management. Through this funding, the Kerby Unison Centre is also increasing the number of shelter beds to 14 from nine.  

"Unison’s mission is to help seniors live well in their community. Survivors of elder abuse need specialized supports and our elder abuse program and shelter are on the front line when it comes to providing a safe refuge. We’re so thankful and excited to be working with the Government of Alberta to increase supports and awareness around elder abuse.”

Larry Mathieson, CEO, Unison for Generations 50+

 “The Government of Alberta’s financial support of the Seniors Safe House and the Intensive Case Management roles are critical to Sage’s ability to respond effectively to the needs of seniors who are experiencing elder abuse, and to support them to live free of violence, neglect and abuse.”

Karen McDonald, executive director, Sage Seniors Association

Elder abuse prevention is part of the government’s broader efforts to support seniors and promote healthy aging. As the population continues to age, it’s more important than ever to ensure seniors can live with dignity, safety and respect.

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