Recognize and Report Abuse
Recognize and Report the Abuse of Older Adults
Abuse of older adults refers to actions that harm an older person or jeopardize their health or welfare. Abuse can be physical, financial or psychological. If this is happening to you, or anyone you know – SPEAK UP!
Who are the Victims?
- Abuse or neglect can happen to any older adult
- Older adults who experience abuse or neglect are often mentally competent, are not dependent on other people and do not require constant care
Who Could be an Abuser?
- Family members
- A spouse
- Children and/or grandchildren
- Friends
- Neighbours
- Paid care providers
- Landlords
- Any individual in a position of power, trust or authority
What is Abuse?
Financial Abuse
- Most common form of abuse
- Illegally or improperly using a person’s money, assets or property without the person’s permission or knowledge
- Pressuring for money, goods or property
- Misuse of a power of attorney
Physical Abuse
- Includes violence or rough treatment
- Inappropriate use of medications or restraints
Sexual Abuse
- Sexual contact without consent
Emotional Abuse
- Includes name calling, intimidation, threats, yelling, ignoring or social isolation
- Can be a form of control, e.g. removing decision making powers
Spiritual Abuse
- Restriction or loss of spiritual practices, customs or traditions
- Using religious or spiritual beliefs to exploit an older person
Violations of Rights
- Ignoring older adult’s entitlement to basic rights and freedoms, e.g. restricting visitors, rights to privacy or access to information
- Making decisions about the older adult’s health, personal care or finances without the person’s consent
What is Neglect?
- Neglect refers to a situation where a person has a responsibility to provide care or assistance to an older adult, but does not
A Neglectful Caregiver Might:
- Stop paying the bills
- Not provide adequate food and shelter
- Over or under medicate
- Withhold medical attention
Abuse is a Crime!
Many types of abuse or neglect are crimes under the Criminal Code of Canada.
If this is happening to you or someone you know contact your local Police.
Speak up! It's not your fault.
Important Phone Numbers
- EMERGENCY: 911 (Do not text 911)
- Non Emergency: Call your local Police
- BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support: 1-866-437-1940
- Crime Victim Assistance Programs: 1-866-660-3888
- VictimLINK: 1-800-563-0808
- VictimLINK TTY: 604-875-0885
Related Links
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