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What is elder abuse?

Elder abuse is hurt or neglect of a senior (elderly) person. Often, it is done by someone who is responsible for caring for the senior person.

Elder abuse can be a crime.

There are many forms of elder abuse.

Physical Abuse

For example:

• Hitting or pushing
• Keeping you confined in a room, bed or chair
• Sexual assault

Neglect

For example:

• Abandonment
• Not providing you with basic needs

Financial Abuse

For example:

• Forcing you to sell your property
• Taking your money

Psychological Abuse

For example:

• Threatening you
• Humiliating you

If you or anyone you know is a victim of elder abuse, contact the police or hospital. You can find emergency telephone numbers the front of your local telephone book. You can also call the Senior Safety Line at 1-866-299-1011.

Settlement agencies can also help you. To find help, go to Services Near Me and search for "settlement services" or "seniors" in your area.

For More Information

• Legal Education Publications about Elder Abuse - Many useful publications about elder abuse, how to identify it and what to do about it.
• Seniors and the Law - Clear language publications on legal topics affecting seniors.
• About Elder Abuse - Information about elder abuse, how to recognize it, how to prevent it, and answers to common questions. From the Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario.
• Senior Safety Line - Call 1-866-299-1011 for help. You can call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can get help in many languages.
• Advocacy Centre for the Elderly (ACE) - ACE is a community-based legal clinic that provides legal services to low-income seniors. Their website has information about elder abuse, including publications and helpful links.