Veiner Centre take over elder abuse case management for city

By Medicine Hat News on November 2, 2022.

Medicine Hat’s Veiner Centre has taken over operation of the city’s Elder Abuse Case Management program as of Aug. 1.

Previously operated by Medicine Hat Family Services from January 2021 until September 2022, the program aims to identify elder abuse through assessment and provide advocacy or referral support for local seniors at risk of of experiencing abuse. The program also works to provide education on elder abuse, estimated to effect 1,326 seniors in Medicine Hat each year.

“Elder abuse case management is such an important service to have in our community,” Alberta Elder Abuse Council chair Shantel Ottenbreit said. “And Veiner Centre is the perfect organization to host the (program) as it offers many support services and social opportunities to older adults.”

Ottenbreit believes introduction of the program at Veiner Centre – a space specifically designed for seniors – is a step toward creating more comprehensive community support services. She also feels the move may lead to better reporting of elder abuse cases, as some victims are reluctant to seek assistance due to stigma, shame and feelings of powerlessness.

“We’re constantly innovating when it comes to initiatives that will improve the lives of the seniors in our communities,” Larry Mathieson, CEO of Veiner Centre parent company Unison, said in a Tuesday statement.

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