June 15 is Elder Mistreatment Awareness Day: Let's protect our Elders
Janie Pepabano from Chisasibi talks about the different types of mistreatment elders and vulnerable adults suffer from and what can be done about it.
On June 15, families and communities across Eeyou Istchee come together to acknowledge the often underestimated and ignored problem of elder mistreatment.
While there are no firm statistics for Eeyou Istchee, we know that the mistreatment of elders and vulnerable adults is a reality in our communities. Chisasibi Elders Council, Cree Women of Eeyou Istchee Association, local Band Offices and Community Organizers are among the entities that have called for action on this issue.
In response, the CBHSSJB produced its Policy to Address the Mistreatment of Elders and Vulnerable Adults, creating a framework for a new set of programs and services to support families and communities with caregiving while providing elders with the tools to report situations of mistreatment. The implementation of the policy is the responsibility of the Office of the Commissioner of Complaints.
This year, in raising awareness about this sensitive issue, we have an opportunity to create a positive, healthy, and respectful environment for aging and vulnerable adults in our communities.
"June 15 is the day to remember our elders and to be aware that they need to be well treated and respected at all times," said CBHSSJB Chairman, Bertie Wapachee.
How to show support for Elders on June 15
- Wear purple to acknowledge that mistreatment is happening in our communities and that help is available.
- Post your photos on social media with the #RespectOurElders hashtag.
- Visit or call an elder in your family to show you care and value them. Have tea. Share stories.
- Organize or take part in intergenerational activities in your community.
- Educate yourself and others to learn about the different forms of elder abuse and ways to help.
If you or a vulnerable adult you care for needs help:
Please contact your local CMC. If you need to talk, call the confidential, 24-hour Wiichihiiwaawin helpline. Cree speakers and traditional healers are available upon request.
Help Resources
Wiichihiiwaauwin (Mental Health) Helpline
Service available 24/7. Cree speakers and Elders are available upon request
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If someone you care about is being mistreated... See it. Name it. Check it.
Elders play an important role in our communities as the keepers of language, tradition and culture, so it is difficult to accept that they might also be the victims of abuse
The Nishiiyuu Miyupimaatisiiun department works to ensure that Cree knowledge and values are reflected in CBHSSJB services.
Our partners
The Cree Health Board would like to acknowledge the support of the following partners:
- Western University It's Not Right campaign
- Cree Nation Government through the Social and Cultural Development department for its financial contribution to this year’s campaign.
We would also like to thank our partners: Regional Committee to Combat the Mistreatment of Elders and Vulnerable Adults including the Eeyou Eenou Police Force; Justice Department – CAVAC; Nishiiyuu Department; Nishiiyuu Council of Elders; Curateur public du Quebec; First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission (FNQLHSSC); Commission des droit de la personne est des droit de la jeunesse Quebec (CDPDJ) and local front line workers.
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