June 15 is Elder Mistreatment Awareness Day: Let's protect our Elders

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.

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.