The province says as the population ages, it’s more important than ever to recognize the signs of abuse and take action to prevent it.

This is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

The provincial government says elder abuse can take many forms including physical, emotional, financial and neglect and often goes unreported.

Seniors’ Advocate Susan Walsh says elder abuse can be a single event, or repeated time and again. Abusers can be family, friends, acquaintances or strangers and ageism can put seniors at risk when society normalizes the harm and neglect of older adults by treating it less seriously.

Walsh says ageism and elder abuse should not be tolerated.

If you suspect elder abuse, or need support call adult protection at 1-855-376-4957.