Elder Abuse activity is part of the Council on Aging and the Social workers are under the Region of York Health Services Department. Although funding is not directly provided for elder abuse prevention activities, the Social Workers incorporate elder abuse prevention into their job descriptions. Their funding is provided by the Region of York Long-Term Care Division and Seniors Community Programs. The two Social Workers have been able to provide ongoing contact and support to caregiving families. This has been an excellent avenue for prevention of abuse.
Elderly clients deny any problem of abuse because of shame and lack of alternatives for care.
A Social worker may be involved for several months or years before seniors admit they are being abused. It is difficult to access clients and their families who need to understand the different aspects of elder abuse and to offer them assistance to cope. It is essential to empower seniors to report abuse and seek help.