Elder Abuse Prevention
Abuse affects the lives of women and men, young and old. Abusers, and the abused, come from all walks of life, all cultures, and all religions. Most abuse occurs between people in close relationships.
Abuse can take many forms including physical, psychological, emotional, financial or neglect.
Physical abuse - Involves causing physical discomfort, pain or injury and includes behaviours such as slapping, hitting, punching, burning, sexual assault and rough handling.
Psychological and emotional abuse - Is an attack on the identity, dignity and self-worth of the person, for example name calling, yelling, insulting, threatening, or excluding them.
Financial abuse - Involves the misuse of money or property, such as stealing, forging a signature on cheques or legal documents, misusing a power of attorney, and forcing or tricking someone into selling or giving away property.
Neglect - Includes not providing basic necessities or care such as food, water, medication, medical treatment, health aids, and clothing.
None of these behaviours are acceptable, regardless of age.
Smart risk strategies for dealing with abuse include:
Look First
- Know the signs of abuse.
Get Trained
- Know the options that are available to support someone experiencing abuse.
Seek Help
- If you are being abused contact someone who can help.
- If you think someone you know is being abused, ask directly about whether abuse is occurring.
- In a private place, when you are alone with the person, ask clear and direct questions about violence and abuse. The abused often blame themselves, or do not report the abuse for fear of embarrassment or being sent to an institution.
- Support the person in getting help.
Need help right away?
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
Family Violence Info Line - Support for witnesses to family violence, or family and friends of victims. And provides information and referral for family violence resources across Alberta - 403-310-1818 (toll-free, 24/7).
Want to know more?
Recommended web links
- Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Network is a province-wide network of professionals working to increase community awareness about elder abuse. Site provides contacts and resources for services such as counselling and support; alternate living services; financial assistance or to report elder abuse.
- The Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse focuses on the prevention of the abuse of older people in Canada. Site provides information on how to find help.
