News & Events

March 22, 2019

Upcoming Event - Senior Bullying 2.0

Did you ever wonder what happened to your nemesis, the high school bully? Well, guess what? He or she grew up and may have become an older bully who has perfected his or her intimidating behaviors. One or more of these aggressive older people may reside in your housing complex, senior center, rehabilitation facility, family, or other place where older people gather.

In this training, we will recognize that older adult bullies really do exist. Bullying behavior is not confined to the playground or high school anymore. We will learn ways of empowering the targets of bullies so that the targets may respond effectively to those who wish to bully them. And we will understand that there are many players in a bullying scenario: the person who is bullied; the bystanders; the staff; and the bully him or herself.

Bullying must never be tolerated, and intervention must be swift, creating a “no bullying zone,” for the ultimate peace and comfort of all involved.

As a result of this workshop, participants will:

• Recognize at least 3 typical traits present within a person defined as an “older bully.”
• Discern at least 2 primary differences between a “difficult” older person and an “older bully.”
• Contrast bullying behavior against elder abuse, citing at least 2 ways in which these behaviors differ.
• Practice at least 3 communication skills which empower victims (and other residents, staff and ourselves) to communicate effectively with the “older bully.”
• Identify at least 4 steps which organizations may implement in order to reduce and eliminate bullying behavior.

The workshop, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, March 22, is presented by the Department of Aging and Adult Services and Institute on Aging. It will take place at SSA Auditorium at 333 West Julian Street in San Jose.Free Continuing Education Units are available. The event is free but you must register to attend.