Akwesasne - In honor of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Elder Abuse Prevention Committee held an event to do just that; having various programs come together to promote good health, contacts, health insurance information, and more. The event was for the Elders in the community and those who love them to have the opportunity to understand what is available to them in terms of support. 

Patrolwoman Julie Smoke and Sergeant Willie Ransom standing at the Tribal Police booth.

Theresa Gardner, who works as a Nurse Practitioner for the St. Regis Mohawk Medical Clinic, gave a speech that focused on the importance of fall prevention and some of the different ways that an elder can possibly hurt themselves. Rugs, uneven floors, getting in and out of showers without grab bars, and many other factors that could lead to falling and injury. Many Elders wish to be independent and Gardner was aware of this. She talked about many different ways that families can help them. As mentioned before, she suggested grab bars on baths and toilets, canes and walkers that are not too long and have rubber soles on them. She also suggested keeping them active like the Tai Chi program with Catherine Cook at the diabetes center and many more programs. 

There were many people there to further promote the safety and security of the Elders in our community. People in Akwesasne can and should learn about different ways to help and protect them. For any more questions or more ways to help the elders, call Helen Gray at the Office of Aging.