Elder Abuse Understanding Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is any action or inaction that causes harm or distress to an older adult, often by someone in a position of trust such as a family member, caregiver, or friend. Abuse can be physical, emotional, financial, sexual, or involve neglect.
Examples include:
- Physical harm or rough handling
- Verbal threats, insults, or manipulation
- Misuse of money, credit, or property
- Withholding medical care or isolating the person
- Pressuring an older adult to make changes to wills, deeds, or accounts
Elder abuse often goes unreported due to fear, shame, or dependency. It can happen in private homes, care facilities, or within institutions.
How Victim Services Can Help
Victim Services organizations offer caring and confidential support to older adults who have experienced abuse, as well as concerned family members or friends.
Support may include:
- Emotional support and crisis intervention
- Safety planning and help with emergency housing
- Referrals to elder-specific counselling or advocacy groups
- Support working with police, legal services, or financial institutions
- Help accessing resources such as Adult Protective Services or the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee
- Assistance with VQRP+ for emergency expenses in eligible cases
Services are respectful, age-sensitive, and focused on restoring dignity, independence, and safety.
