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As the summer quickly draws to a close and Ontarians are getting back to the more regular routines of school, work and community activities, it is important that we continue to be inclusive of all the diverse populations that help shape our world. On August 9th, we celebrated the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, a day dedicated to honoring the rich cultures, histories, and contributions Indigenous peoples have and continue to make globally.
In keeping with our commitment to protect and empower older adults, we will be hosting another webinar in October, to update our followers, about the United Nations' passing of a landmark resolution, to one that will further help safeguard older persons and protect their human rights.
In this issue, you will find a number of engaging articles, new resources and a showcase of community events, which focused, on uplifting older adults' voices to promote the understanding of trending issues impacting our lives and fostering a more inclusive society. We encourage you to explore these resources, learn more about our events, and share your thoughts with us as together, we continue to build a supportive and connected community.
Marta Hajek
CEO, EAPO
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📌 Our call for nominations is open!
✅ Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario (EAPO) is calling for expressions of interest by community members and influencers to join our Board of Directors.
✅ Are you looking for a new opportunity to get engaged and effect meaningful change? Please send the application to the attention of the Nominating Committee via email: admin@eapon.ca by end of business day, October 11th, 2024.
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This Special Event is co-hosted by the Learning Network and Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario.
Queer and trans older adults have lived through times when their sexual orientation/gender identity was criminalized and pathologized.
In this Special Event, Dr. Gloria Gutman and Dr. Claire Robson will share information on the lived experience of transwomen, gay men and lesbians including financial abuse, physical and sexual abuse, psychological abuse and neglect within partner relationships, in residential care, in home care, and from religious organizations. This part of the presentation is drawn from in-depth interviews excerpted in their book, published with Dr. Jen Marchbank and Makaela Prentice, titled “Elder Abuse in the LGBTQ2SA+ Community: The Impact of Homophobia and Transphobia”.
Part 2 of the presentation draws from analysis of data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging conducted by Drs. Gutman, Heather Stewart and Mojgan Karbakhsh. These analyses provide numbers not previously available, comparing rates not just by abuse type but also by victim sexual orientation/gender identity (SOGI). Perpetrator characteristics across abuse types and SOGI groups will also be reported - with some interesting differences highlighted.
This Special Event will be presented in English with ASL interpretation and closed-captioning.
Full details here
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Reimagine Aging – A Program to Counter Internalized Ageism
September 18, 2024 from 1 PM - 2 PM ET
Speakers:
Michelle Porter, PhD, Director, Centre on Aging, University of Manitoba
Dallas Murphy, MA, Research Assistant, Centre on Aging, University of Manitoba
In this webinar, Dr. Michelle Porter and Dallas Murphy, join EAPO in defining internalized ageism, by providing examples and explanations of the potential consequences of this form of discrimination. They will share information about the program developed at the Centre on Aging at the University of Manitoba called 'Reimagine Aging', that was created to counter internalized ageism (or self-ageism) in older people. The webinar will include: a fuller description of the research findings as well as other aspects of the program offerings, including future directions. Presented with ASL interpretation.
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Disclosure and Reporting of Abuse Against Older Adults
September 25, 2024
1 PM - 2 PM ET
Speakers:
Kerstin Roger, PhD, Professor, Dept. of Community Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba Christine A. Walsh, Professor, Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary
Presented with ASL interpretation.
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Aging Vibrantly: Conversations to Empower Seniors
EAPO is excited to announce our newest initiative-a Podcast Series being launched this fall!
These podcasts will help amplify seniors' voices, by sharing their insights, research on aging and developing innovative approaches that expand the awareness of elder abuse, the rights of older adults, challenge ageism and inspire community members to promote positive aging and respect for the fastest growing demographic and how together we can prevent elder abuse.
Amplifing Older Adult's Voices
In preparation for the launch of our podcasts, we would like to hear from older adults about specific topics and issues of interest or if you have expertise in a particular subject area related to elder abuse prevention and would like to share with community members.
If you are an older adult, please share your thoughts and ideas with us, click the button below:
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United Nations Passes Landmark Resolution to Protect the
Human Rights of Older People
In a momentous decision, after 14 years of deliberations, forums and over 900 evidentiary documents submitted, the Member States of the UN adopted a significant Resolution which will pave the way for a UN process that would establish an internationally, legally binding instrument – a Convention – to safeguard the human rights of older people.
The recommendations put forward by the 14th Session of the Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWGA) in May 2024, are included in the Resolution most importantly to begin the process of drafting this legally binding instrument centered on the rights of older people. This is a vital step towards ensuring that older adults' voices are heard and that their rights are protected globally.
This is more than just a win; it's the beginning of a new chapter in our collective effort to build a world where everyone can live with the respect and protections they deserve as they get older.
This resolution is being presented for further consideration by the UN General Assembly in September. Member States will vote on whether the Human Rights Council (Geneva) should continue these discussions without further delay. The passing of this Resolution marks the start of this next, critical new phase in our Advocacy for older people’s rights. EAPO is proud to be part of this conversation and we encourage everyone to help us keep the momentum going!
Read more about the UN Resolution
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Fact Sheet : Gender-Based Violence (GBV) among Older Adults
GBV is a pervasive societal issue affecting individuals of all ages, including older adults. This fact sheet explains how GBV affects older adults. It aims to raise awareness of GBV and the unique challenges and impacts it has on the senior population.
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Fact Sheet : Safety Plan for Older Adults
A Safety Plan is an effective resource that outlines safe actions an older adult can take, to increase their safety, security and well-being, particularly in the context of unhealthy relationships. Having a Safety Plan empowers older adults to be able to make informed decisions, taking actionable steps and engaging strategies to protect themselves from further abuse and harm.
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While there are some risk factors you cannot control for dementia, such as age and genetics, reducing the effects of risk factors that can be controlled is possible.
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Battling social isolation and loneliness from home
Among Canadians 50 years of age and older, 41% experience social isolation and 57% experience varying degrees of loneliness.
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The Retired Teachers of Ontario/Les enseignantes et enseignants retraités de l’Ontario (RTO ERO) Foundation awards grants between $20,000 to $50,000 to projects that aim to improve seniors’ health and wellness, promote social engagement for older adults and/or pursue innovative research in the field of geriatrics and gerontology.
Accepting Letters of Intent: Sept. 9, 2024 Deadline to submit Letter of Intent: Sept. 20, 2024
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The Ontario Government has launched Ontario's Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence with a Call for Proposals (CFP) for evidence-based projects to prevent and address gender-based violence in communities. The CFP funding is $100 million over three years (2024-25 to 2026-27).
This CFP seeks to fund projects to reduce gender-based violence through innovative, evidence-based projects that meet local and community-based needs in four priority areas: education and awareness, early intervention and prevention, community planning and service integration, and economic security and financial independence.
The Call for Proposals are open from August 16 until (5:00 pm. EST) October 11, 2024. Please follow the link to learn more. The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services is hosting four (4) information sessions for potential applicants onthe followign days:
Thursday, September 12, 2024, 3pm to 4pm – English session: Click here to join the session
Monday, September 16, 2024, 10am to 11:30am – Targeted session for Indigenous
organizations: Click here to join the session
Tuesday, September 17, 2024, 10am to 11am – English & French session: Click here to join the session
Thursday, October 3, 2024, 11am to 12pm – English & French session: Click here to join the session
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Government of Canada launches Call for Proposals for community projects to help seniors. The New Horizons for Seniors Program marks its 20th anniversary and nearly 40,000 local projects since inception.
Organizations can apply for funding to deliver projects that will help seniors be more connected and active members of their communities. Organizations are encouraged to reflect the four national priorities for this cycle as part of their projects:
- supporting healthy aging;
- preventing senior abuse;
- celebrating diversity and promoting inclusion; and
- supporting financial security.
Deadline for submissions: September 12, 2024
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The Older Adult Centres’ Association of Ontario (OACAO) is thrilled to announce that nominations for its prestigious awards program are now open! This is an exceptional opportunity to honour and celebrate those extraordinary senior volunteers or dedicated staff members who consistently exceed expectations and embody the spirit of excellence. Nomination submission has never been easier! Our online platform provides a seamless and user-friendly experience, ensuring that your deserving candidate receives the recognition they deserve. Nominees will receive an email confirming receipt of submission.
Deadline for submissions: September 6, 2024.
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Join the Canadian Coalition Against Ageism (CCAA) | |
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The Canadian Coalition Against Ageism (CCAA) is a nation-wide social change movement to end ageism against older people while protecting and strengthening their human rights. Every person deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and fairness – no matter their age.
Ready to make the world more age-inclusive? Sign up as an Affiliate Member now! Should you wish to join CCAA please use the following link: https://ccaageism.ca/join/
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NEW Reports and Resources | | |
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This Backgrounder sheds light on this underreported social issue, by reviewing recent research and forefronting the lived experiences of survivors. Drawing upon stories shared by survivors, it recommends changes and additions to existing practices for organizations and individuals working with elders to better support GSM elders and end elder abuse. | |
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Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2024 - Bill 173,.
The Act requires the Government of Ontario to recognize that intimate partner violence is an epidemic in Ontario. The Bill received second reading and was referred to the Standing Committee on Justice Policy.
The Committee is conducting a study on IPV, and began their hearings on July 17th, with testimonies from over 40 expert witnesses including, the Centre for Research and Education on Violence Against Women and Children at Western University, the Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses, WomanAct, Moose Hide Campaign and Family Service Ontario, and Dr. Peter Jaffe, Professor Emeritus at Western University.
If you haven’t had a chance to watch the hearings, you can read the transcripts.
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July Femicide Report in Ontario
Since November 26th, 2023 a total of 42 femicides have been confirmed through media reporting, an increase when compared to the annual total from July 2023.
On average, over 5 femicides are occurring in the province each month. The current rates of femicide in the province across all age groups and relationship types remain alarmingly high and we continue to see increasing femicide numbers, impacting women and girls across their lifespan.
French: https://bit.ly/juillet2024Femicide
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Guidelines on Gender-Based Violence in the Media
These guidelines aim to support journalists writing and reporting on gender-based violence by providing information, facts, words, suggestions, and frames for their stories
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Forgotten Rights: Seniors Not Afforded Equal Rent Protection. New Office of the BC Seniors Advocate Report
The report provides many examples of seniors living in retirement homes being denied their basic rights to the protection of the regulated annual allowable rent increase. In some cases, landlords have argued the RTA does not apply to the tenant. In other cases, landlords have claimed that the RTA only applies to rent and does not apply to the mandatory monthly fees for services such as mandatory meals and housekeeping.
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WOMEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF AGING IN CANADA
Women’s Age Lab’s latest report addresses the unique challenges faced by older women in Canada. It sheds light on the health and wellbeing challenges often overlooked in research, healthcare, and policymaking daily and on a systemic level. By prioritizing the needs of older women, these findings provide valuable insights for building a more inclusive and sustainable future for all older adults.
Explore the full report for comprehensive lens on improving the status quo for older women in Canada.
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Social Prescribing in British Columbia: United Way BC’s Vision
United Way British Columbia (UWBC) is leading the integration of Social Prescribing within the province, adapting this internationally recognized approach to meet the unique needs of British Columbia’s communities.
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OCO’s Impact Report for 2023-24 by Ontario Caregiver Organization
OCO’s Impact Report for 2023-24 is now available, marking a significant milestone as the 2021-2024 Strategic Plan comes to a close. This period has been defined by unwavering dedication and a relentless focus on improving the lives of Ontario’s estimated four million caregivers.
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AEAAC Annual Report, dedicated to increasing awareness and supporting a community response to Elder Abuse.
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Studies looking for Older Adults | |
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Stranger than Family-Decision Making and Ethics of Substitution for People Living with Dementia Going it Alone
This study explores how people facing dementia alone are connected with a SDM and how ideas about capacity, consent, and decision-making affect them.
Seeking participants in Ontario and Alberta who:
- Are facing dementia alone
- Are healthcare and social service workers and other professionals who have tried to connect adult clients with a substitute decision-maker
- AND/OR have been substitute and/or supportive decision-makers for someone living with dementia who is not a close family member or close friend
Read Full Study here
To participate or for more information, contact Dr. Celeste Pang: tncpang@mtroyal.ca
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Are you an adult aged 65+ living in Canada who has been targeted and/or victimized by fraud?
King’s University College at Western University and the Ontario Provincial Police are conducting a study across Canada on fraud victimization among older adults and are seeking older adults to participate in a study.
The study aims to document the harms that victims and near-victims of fraud experience, and to determine the best ways to meet the support needs of older adults.
Read full Study here
To participate and learn more, contact:
Dr. Joshua Wyman, PhD, C. Psych.
Assistant Professor and Registered School & Clinical Psychologist in Ontario
jwyman6@uwo.ca
Lyndsay R. Woolridge, MA , OPP
lyndsay.woolridge@opp.ca
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The RHRA AGM and Recognition Event will take place on Thursday, September 19, 2024, from 3:00– 4:30 p.m. and will be held virtually over Zoom to make it accessible for guests from across the province to attend.
Highlights of the Recognition Event will include:
- Sharing stories of remarkable retirement home residents as part of our Resident Champion Award presentation.
- Recognizing an organization who has collaborated with the RHRA to advance resident protection as part of our Partner in Protection Award.
If you would like to attend, please RSVP through Eventbrite or by emailing communications@rhra.ca. A Zoom link and agenda will be provided to all attendees prior to the event.
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The RHRA is seeking two individuals to join our Stakeholder Advisory Council (SAC). RHRA is interested in elevating the voice of residents, their families, caregivers, or others who provide direct support to residents. Your involvement will help strengthen the resident perspective on the council. While these positions are voluntary, there is an honorarium in recognition of the participation and contributions members make at SAC meetings.
The SAC provides the RHRA with advice on a wide range of topics/issues/trends relating to the regulator’s resident protection mandate and strategic priorities. SAC meetings are held virtually to enable participation of its ten members who reside across Ontario.
If you or someone you know are interested in applying for this position, please complete the SAC Application Form and submit it to RHRA by email at communications@rhra.ca by 5:00PM EST on August 30, 2024. Applicants may add a CV or resume to supplement their application.
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All members of the Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse are invited to attend their Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 10 AM -11:30 AM (PT) / 1 PM - 2:30 PM (ET). Members are entitled to vote during the AGM.
The meeting will be held online via Zoom. Registration is required to participate. Click here to: Register now!
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Upcoming Webinars & Conferences | |
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Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario | www.eapon.ca
416-916-6728 | Toll-Free: 1-833-916-6728
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