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