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eFit for Individuals & Caregivers: Abuse & Neglect
Abuse of older adults is an action, or lack of action, that causes harm or distress to an older adult. Abuse can come in many forms:
- Financial abuse – stealing or misusing money or property
- Physical abuse – causing physical pain or injury
- Sexual abuse – sexual contact or communication without consent
- Emotional abuse – causing mental distress, fear of violence or isolation
- Neglect – not providing basic necessities
- Violation of rights – ignoring basic rights and freedoms
- Systemic abuse – rules or policies discriminating against older adults
Elder abuse can be hard to recognize because some signs of abuse can appear to be symptoms of a person’s dementia or mental decline. It is important to be aware of the signs so that the right help can be sought when needed.
Abuse and Neglect of Older Adults: Understanding Gender Differences (available in multiple languages) (HealthLink BC):
Website
Educational Materials for Seniors (Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario):
Website
Elder Abuse (World Health Organization):
Website
Elder Abuse – learn the signs and break the silence (Government of Alberta):
Video
Elder Abuse & Neglect: In Search of Solutions (American Psychological Association):
Pamphlet
Elder Abuse and Neglect (includes self-neglect) (HelpGuide):
Website
Elder Abuse: The Hidden Crime (Community Legal Education Ontario):
Handbook
It’s Not Right! – Neighbours, Friends and Families for Older Adults (Western Centre for Research & Education on Violence Against Women & Children):
Website
Snapshot of Family Violence In Canada (Government of Canada):
Infographic
What every older Canadian should know about Financial Abuse (Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible
for Seniors Forum):
Pamphlet
What every older Canadian should know about Frauds and Scams (Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible
for Seniors Forum):
Pamphlet