Today marks Elder Abuse Awareness day and a number of seniors advocates are calling for more protection for the elderly.

Susan Eng, Vice President of Advocacy for CARP,  wants to see a law making it mandatory to report suspected cases of elder abuse including cases of exploitation, neglect or physical abuse.

Eng says elder abuse occurs within a closed circle, often within a family,  and the victims are reluctant to report a family member or caregiver.

Provincial laws make it mandatory to report abuse, but the law only applies to retirement and long-term care homes.

Mario Sergio, the Ontario Minister Responsible for Seniors, says he will consider extending the reporting requirement beyond the existing legislation.

The CN tower will be lit up in purple tonight to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

It’s estimated that between 10 and 30 percent of seniors have been subjected to some form of abuse.