Supporting the Safety of Seniors

Respect Aging Training Program Unveiled Today

Respect Aging, a new training program under the Provincial Government’s Violence Prevention Initiative, was unveiled today at the provincial stakeholder’s conference.

“Violence against older persons is a concern for the Provincial Government. The new Respect Aging program provides great resources designed to help recognize, prevent and intervene in violence against older persons. All older persons in this province should live free from fear, exploitation and violence in safe and supportive communities.”
- The Honourable Joan Shea, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women and lead Minister for the Violence Prevention Initiative

Over the last four years, the Women’s Policy Office, through the Violence Prevention Initiative, has worked in partnership with the Office for Aging and Seniors, a Provincial Advisory Committee of government and community representatives, and an Advisory Committee of Aboriginal governments and organizations to develop, deliver and evaluate training and education materials for the new Respect Aging program.

“We are pleased to have partnered on this important initiative. The Respect Aging program promotes a change in attitudes aimed at dispelling the many stereotypes and misconceptions about people as they age. Through this program, we are reminded of the important roles that older adults continue to play in our society and the need to eliminate violence in all forms.”
- The Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Health and Community Services and Minister Responsible for Aging and Seniors

All program components are featured on a new website, www.respectaging.ca, and are available to those who work with older persons, as well as anyone in the public interested in the prevention of violence against older persons.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting important social programs, strong communities and the health and well-being of children, families and seniors.

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government launched a new Respect Aging training program as a part of the Violence Prevention Initiative.
• The Respect Aging program consists of a comprehensive, 16-module education participant manual and an accompanying trainer’s guide, as well as a second trainer’s guide for law enforcement agencies.
• All Respect Aging materials are featured on a new website, www.respectaging.ca, and are available to those who work with older persons, as well as anyone in the public interested in the prevention of violence against older persons.
• Information about the Violence Prevention Initiative can be found at www.gov.nl.ca/vpi.

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2014 03 18                                          11:40 a.m.