The NWT Seniors’ Society has released a new booklet that redefines Elder abuse through the words and lived experiences of Indigenous Elders across the Northwest Territories.
Titled Elder Abuse: The Words of Our Elders, the booklet highlights the many forms abuse can take — including physical, emotional, financial, neglect, and sexual abuse — using examples and scenarios shared by 26 Indigenous Elders during three regional workshops.
“When I started this job, the first thing I heard from communities was that Elders didn’t see themselves in the definitions provided by government organizations,” said Karen Willy, executive director of the NWT Seniors’ Society.
“What was missing wasn’t necessarily the terminology — it was northern examples.”
One of the booklet’s examples of financial abuse includes taking advantage of an Elder’s resources, such as gas or groceries, or damaging personal property like snowmobiles or boats.
Yellowknife Elder Linda Kue, who participated in the workshops, said many Elders may not realize they’re experiencing abuse.
“It makes them feel good that the kids come over to talk to them and they give them money and everyone’s happy,” said Kue. “But the bottom line is, that’s financial abuse.”
“We need to let people know it’s okay to speak up and talk about it,” she added.
The booklet provides definitions, examples and scenarios of Elder abuse. (Josie Jiaxuan Wu/CKLB)
To further support Elders, the Seniors’ Society is also facilitating Elder abuse awareness workshops. So far, 15 participants from communities across the territory have been trained to offer local support. The workshops are expected to continue for the next two years and may be extended with additional funding.
The booklet is available free of charge. To request a copy, email admin@seniorsnwt.ca.
