Rise in senior abuse causes concern

Dear Editor:

There seems to be a rise in seniors’ abuse in Alberta and across our country. In Edmonton alone for the month of January, at the Edmonton courthouse, I am aware of two arraignments (one for break and enter and sexual assault, and one for sexual assault and second degree murder) and two fatality inquiries regarding seniors. There are two more fatality inquiries, one on Feb.1 and the other on March 5.

What is most disturbing is the fact the two fatality inquiries are occurring between three to six years after the senior died. The one senior was administered a lethal dose of medication at a long-term care centre and she died the same day. The other disturbing fatality involves a senior lady who, on Sept.11, 2005, was taken to the hospital from her long-term care home.

Upon admission to the U of A hospital, they diagnosed her with the following: “malnutrition/dehydration, muscle wasting, decreased albumin levels, anemia, appeared totally emaciated, cachexia, swollen left great toe reddened with necrosis, pressure sores on coccyx and heels, pus oozing from a sore on her ear, pseudomonas infection in her urine.”

The U of A staff stated they were mandated to make a complaint to the Protection for Persons in Care Act – Section 1-Part 6, “failing to provide the necessities of life such as food and medical attention.” Her condition further deteriorated and she passed away on Sept.24, 2005. The provincial government investigated and found no wrongdoing. Are they serious? Are they blind? It seems like they would rather sweep things under a carpet and try and hide them. That is why the fatality inquiry is taking place.

As a seniors advocate, I find it extremely disturbing that some of the people who manage these facilities for seniors show no compassion or respect for the elderly. Do they not have a conscience?

There are many cases of abuse to seniors here in Alberta. Seniors abuse not only takes place in the cities, but in smaller communities such Rimbey, Ponoka and Wetaskiwin as well. It is time that our Progressive Conservative government starts to deal with this issue seriously as our senior population is growing at a fast and steady rate. The number of Canadian seniors is expected to double by the year 2036. I urge all of you to call your MLA and let them know that we must take a firm stand and be diligent with senior’s abuse.

We all must remember that we will be a senior citizen one day and I hope and pray that we would all want to be treated with dignity and respect and not be labeled a trouble maker because we speak out.

For further research and documentaries please visit “elderadvocates.ca” and remember: if you see or suspect senior abuse, please report it to the police as that senior’s life could be depending on you.

I would be glad to give any group or organization a free presentation on Seniors Abuse. You can contact me at 403-505-0838 or voiceforseniors@gmail.com. It is time to speak out and let your voice be heard.

James Nakoneshny,

voiceforseniors@gmail.com