Senior Abuse
The effects of abuse are far-reaching and often disastrous, sometimes even leading to death. The effects of abuse are both physical and mental. Many seniors will succumb to various forms of mental illness, especially depression, which is often associated with the various types of abuse. Abuse therefore has a considerable social and economic cost.
Financial abuse is often accompanied by blackmail and threats:
- Theft of the person’s property
- Misappropriation of funds
- Fraudulent power of attorney
- Phoney service contracts
People who are physically or sexually abused may be:
- Pinched
- Pushed
- Treated harshly
- Struck
- Forced to perform sexual acts
Psychological abuse generally seeks to control people through:
- Fear
- Insecurity
- Guilt
- Humiliation
- Isolation
Treating someone with neglect means:
- Failing to provide for their essential needs
- Depriving them of food
- Depriving them of care
- Depriving them of essential medication
What to do if you are a victim?
- Speak to someone you trust
- Speak to your doctor or to a resource person at your CLSC (CSSS)
To confide in someone or ask for advice, you can call the numbers below:
- Tel-Aînés 514 353-2463
- Elder Abuse Helpline 514 489-2287
In case of emergency, call 911.
What to do if you are a witness?
- Speak to a care worker who can advise you
- Speak to the victim alone and find out how he or she feels about the situation
- Keep in regular touch with the victim until the situation is resolved
Links and references about elder abuse
Association québécoise de défense des droits des personnes retraitées et préretraitées
Juripop
Crime Victims assistance Center
Éducaloi - Seniors and Financial Fraud
Fédération de l’Âge d’Or du Québec
Research Chair on Mistreatment of Older Adults
Publications
Governmental Action Plan to Counter Elder Abuse (PDF - in french)
