June 13, 2025
Manitoba Government Announces Investment to Expand Elder Abuse Services in Rural, Northern Manitoba
– – –Province Proclaims World Elder Abuse Awareness Day: Asagwara
The Manitoba government is proclaiming June 15 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and supporting the expansion of elder abuse prevention services in rural and northern Manitoba, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced today.
“Older adults in Manitoba built our province and are valued members of society,” said Asagwara. “World Elder Abuse Awareness Day provides communities a valuable opportunity to work together and share information on how to recognize the signs of elder abuse and turn awareness into action.”
The Manitoba government is providing an additional $100,000 in grant funding to A & O: Support Services for Older Adults to expand its elder abuse prevention services, bringing the total funding for this program to $267,000. This investment will allow the organization to provide direct support for individuals who have experienced abuse, home safety planning and community awareness initiatives in rural and northern communities, noted the minister.
"We are deeply grateful for this funding, which will allow us to support more older Manitobans experiencing abuse,” said Amanda Macrae, CEO, A & O: Support Services for Older Adults. “In many smaller communities across the province, specialized elder abuse services are simply not available, that’s where A & O can help. Since 1957, A & O has been a trusted leader of elder abuse prevention services. We recognize how difficult it can be for an older adult to come forward. That’s why it is essential to respond with proactive, compassionate support the moment they reach out for help."
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day launched in 2006 to increase awareness of elder abuse and how it can be prevented. Manitobans are encouraged to wear purple on Sunday to show their support, added Asagwara.
To learn more about resources that help protect and empower older adults, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/seniors/resources/safety-and-security.html#SeniorsAbuse.
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