Elder Abuse
As our elder population increases, so to does elder abuse. Despite what many think, elder abuse is a lot more than hitting a senior. It is a multi-faceted problem and very complex.
It is estimated that as much as 86% of abuse is never reported by seniors. Seniors are suffering abuse that nobody knows about. Over 80% of abuse is perpetrated by family…by family seniors love. No wonder it’s hidden!
TYPES OF ELDER ABUSE
PHYSICAL ABUSE
- slapping, pushing, pulling, etc….hurtful physical acts the senior is unable to avoid or fend off
- Neglect
- Not meeting the needs of an older person unable to meet them for herself or himself
FINANCIAL ABUSE
- Any act done without consent that results in the financial or personal gain of one person at the expense of another
- A person in a position of legal trust may withhold money,
- Improper use of power of attorney
- Theft of money or possessions
- Using their personal property without permission
- Forcing/tricking an older adult into selling his or her house
- Forging signature on pension cheques or legal papers i.e. Will
- Cashing pension or other cheques without authorization
- Withholding financial information/not letting the senior know their financial status
- Forcing or giving away a seniors possessions without his/her permission
- Not allowing an older person to buy needed clothes or equipment
EMOTIONAL ABUSE
- Includes verbal abuse and, on the other side of the coin, isolation and ignoring
- Sexual Abuse
- Unwanted sexual activity
- Withholding of Civic Human Rights because of their age
- Includes denying the senior the right to make decisions about their own lives
These activities are all acts of elder abuse that seniors deserve to be protected from.
If you are experiencing any of these violations or know someone who is contact:
- Region of Durham, Advisor-Seniors’ Safety: 905-668-7711 ext. 2460
- Durham Regional Police, Seniors Support Co-ordinator: 905-579-1520 ext. 1865
- Seniors CRIMESTOPPERS: 1-800-222-8477
- Bethesda House: 1-800-338-3397
