Seniors Neglect and Abuse Response Line - A Systems and Servies Review of Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region

Abstract

Canadians are increasingly aware of the issue of senior neglect and abuse, according to a 2011 EKOS survey. Many service agencies in Saskatchewan receive reports of senior abuse and neglect. However, there is uncertainty regarding what community resources exist for older adult victims and whether those resources are meeting current community needs. This project investigates policies and procedures relating to senior abuse and neglect in the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region (RQHR), in order to identify existing services and any gaps or challenges that may exist. While RQHR does not have specific policies relating to senior neglect and abuse, it has policies around abuse and neglect in situations that senior clients are often in. Managers interviewed were quite aware of policies and processes and recent health region changes to improve them. They expressed confidence in the ability of health region staff to respond to situations of abuse and neglect, but also suggested that further supports could make their responses more thorough and timely. In particular, study participants recommended the creation of a provincial Guardian and Trustee for Seniors and more connections between the health region and community organizations for assistance with education and service provision.