May 09, 2008

Money Matters for Seniors

Phone (430) 705-3210
moneymatters@kerbycentre.com

Financial Abuse and Seniors

Money Matters for Seniors Program ,which Kerby Centre delivers throughout the province of Alberta, is aimed at making seniors aware of financial abuse and how to prevent it. The program acquaints audiences with the serious problem of financial abuse of seniors by people who they trust. These "trusted" individuals are often family members or close acquaintances.

Money Matters for Seniors was originated in British Columbia by the B.C. Coalition to Eliminate Abuse of Seniors (BCCEAS). Recognizing the need for such a program in Alberta, Kerby Centre accepted the invitation of BCCEAS to become the provincial site host for Alberta, and in August, 2001 the Money Matters for Seniors program was launched in Calgary.

Endorsed by the federal government, the Alberta Chiefs of Police, the RCMP and major financial institutions, the goal of the program is to raise awareness among seniors of the devastating nature of financial abuse, its affects and what can be done to prevent it.

This free presentation takes less than an hour and consists of a short introduction, followed by an informative and absorbing video depicting many scenarios of financial abuse. Information and handouts are provided on powers of attorney and personal directives. The presentation incorporates an interactive question and answer period at the end.

If desired, the RCMP can also attend the session to describe some incidents of seniors' abuse. Colourful posters can be made available to advertise the event.