By James Peters

RCMP say elder abuse is under-reported, sometimes not even recognized

Jun 15, 2016 | 10:40 AM

KAMLOOPS — This is elder abuse awareness day and the local RCMP detachment says elder abuse is typically an under-reported crime.

Corporal Jodi Shelkie says sometimes the behavior isn’t even recognized as abuse in the first place.

“It could be financial abuse. Sometimes it’s a case where a family member is living with the elder, they’re taking advantage of the situation and the elder is supporting them,” said Shelkie.

She notes RCMP want to hear about it.

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“We have people who can look into it, we work with support workers with the family and friends and financial institutions to help keep seniors safe. We recognize they are a priority, and that they are a vulnerable sector that we need to look after,” stated Shelkie. 

Shelkie adds scammers often take advantage of seniors’ unfamiliarity with technology, or of their religious beliefs by posing as someone with the same beliefs and asking for money.