Member Spotlight: Constable Erin Brown finds a new calling in Senior Safety
What began as a simple search for a new experience four years ago, has become a passion for Constable Erin Brown.
Now 25 years into her policing career, Constable Brown says her work in the Senior Safety Unit has been a rewarding new challenge.
“I’ve been in quite a few different units but this is the first time I’ve ever worked in Community Services. I’ll tell you there’s a lot of work to be done, but I love being out in the community and meeting new people,” Brown explained.
In 2021, a York Region statistics report revealed a shift in demographics. The number of residents in the region over the age of 65 had exceeded the number of youths, making the role of the Senior Safety Unit even more important.
“We are seeing an uptick in demand for services as far as resources, referrals, elder abuse sadly, arguments when it comes to Power of Attorney and how to handle those documents and situations, but also older adults that are trying to still live at home and we want them to age in place, but do it safely.”
Constable Brown has been a key part of the evolution of the unit, which has had to adapt to meet the ever-changing approach of criminals using new technology to defraud vulnerable members of the community.
As part of the Senior Safety Unit’s ongoing work to help older adults stay safe, York Regional Police will be hosting two virtual presentations focused on online safety:
Oct. 14 – Virtual Cyber Safety Seminar: Helping Older Adults Stay Safe Online: For Professionals and Caregivers
Learn how professionals and caregivers can help older adults stay safe online, recognize potential risks and support those who may have been victims of online fraud or scams.
Oct. 15 – Virtual Cyber Safety Seminar: Cyber Safety for Older Adults: Recognizing and Preventing Online Scams
Learn how to recognize common online scams and take steps to protect yourself from fraud and other cyber safety risks.
Watch the video for more tips on how to help keep older adults safe.