Yellowknife, N.W.T. – June 15 was World Elder Abuse Day and the NWT Seniors Society is getting the word out about how serious the problem really is.

Elder abuse is defined as any act which involves physical, mental or emotional mistreatment of older adults and can also include financial exploitation.

The society's executive director, Barb Hood, said the issue has become a priority over the last few years and the work will continue until everyone is aware.

“I think we’re just beginning to make significant impacts on the lives of older adults by training, educating and communicating to people generally that this is an issue,” she said.

Hood also said it's important to make sure more people know that there are more ways than ever to ensure elders stay safe.

“We certainly now know that there are things that can be done,” she said. “There are supports there and that, hopefully, we’ll make the lives of older adults that much more secure.”

A 2009 study by Statistics Canada showed that more than 150,000 people over the age of 55 had reported being a victim of some sort of elder abuse.

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