The Nelson & Area Elder Abuse Prevention Program has been a program under the umbrella of the Nelson & District Seniors Coordinating Society since the winter of 2008. It is the vision of this volunteer based group to utilize awareness-raising activities, education, current resource listings and advocacy to reduce ageism and to increase public knowledge for prevention, identification and reporting of elder abuse, neglect and self neglect in Nelson and the surrounding communities.
Rural support includes the communities of Balfour, the East Shore, Harrop/Proctor, Kaslo and area, Lower Slocan Valley and Salmo and area.
Did you know that one out of 12 seniors in BC have been financially abused in amounts that averaged over $20,000? Did you know that on September 1, 2011 new laws came into effect in BC that significantly impact Powers of Attorney, Representation Agreements and Advance Directives (also known as Living Wills)?
The program believes these changes can provide a much-higher level of protection for seniors and all adults only if people become aware of them and their limitations.
The Nelson & Area Elder Abuse Prevention Program (EAPP) volunteer educators have developed a one half hour powerpoint presentation outlining significant changes to the laws and have provided the materials to six of the area senior citizen association branches. If any other community groups, organizations, or businesses would like to book this well received presentation please contact us at preventeldRabuse@sbdemail.com or by phone message at the Seniors Coordinating Society 250-352-6008.
The EAPP resource centre is also open to the public Wednesday, noon to 2 p.m. for individual concerns or requests for information (719 Vernon Street). Drop-in or appointments can be made.