What is Elder Abuse?
Elder abuse happens when someone does something, or chooses not to do something, that causes harm to an older adult. This harm can be physical (like hitting or pushing), emotional (yelling or insults), sexual, psychological (controlling behaviour or threats), financial (taking money or property), or a mix of these. Even neglect, such as ignoring needs or failing to provide proper care, can be abuse.
Abuse often comes from someone close, like a family member, caregiver, or friend, and is about power and control. It rarely stops on its own and often escalates over time. You are not to blame, and you don’t have to go through it alone.
Sadly, many older adults are also targeted by scams and fraud, which are a growing form of financial abuse. Scammers may pose as government agencies, fake charities, tech support, or even pretend to be a grandchild in trouble. If it seems suspicious, it probably is. Learn how to spot the red flags and protect yourself; click on the button below to read more about this in The Little Black Book of Scams, a helpful guide from the Government of Canada. Or contact us for your own copy.
You deserve to feel safe, respected, and cared for—always.
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Scams
Fraud is the most common crime against older Canadians. While anyone can be a victim, seniors are often targeted more because they may be at home during the day, are sometimes more trusting, and may not have family or friends nearby to ask for advice.
The people who commit these crimes are called con artists. They don’t only go after the wealthy; sometimes they steal a small amount from many people. Con artists use many tricks, including phone calls, the Internet, and even door-to-door visits.
How to Protect Yourself
• Keep important documents (like passport, birth certificate, SIN card) in a safe place.
• Never share your PIN, passwords, or account details.
• Shred old bills and statements.
• Don’t click on links or open attachments from strangers.
• Don’t sign contracts right away — take time to think first.
• Be cautious if someone you don’t know asks you to send or return money.
• Before hiring anyone, ask for ID and check references.
If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
Don’t be embarrassed! Scams can happen to anyone. Report it to your local police, or call PhoneBusters at 1-888-495-8501. Even if you can’t get your money back, reporting helps protect others.
Identity Theft
This happens when someone steals your personal information and pretends to be you. They may try to open bank accounts, apply for credit cards, or take out loans in your name. If your wallet or mail goes missing, tell your bank right away.
Credit/Debit Card Fraud
A scammer may use your card (or a copy of it) to spend your money. Always keep your card in sight, cover your PIN when you enter it, and never share your PIN.
Online Scams
Scammers often send fake e-mails that look real. They might say there’s a problem with your bank or taxes, or they may ask for your personal details. If you’re unsure, don’t click on links or give out information. Call the company directly instead.
Phone or Door-to-Door Scams
Scammers may call or knock on your door pretending to be from a charity, a business, or even family. They might offer prizes or use pressure to get you to buy something or give money. If you don’t know them, don’t share information or pay
Who Could Abuse Me?
Elder abuse often happens within families. It could be an adult child or a grandchild, but it can also be other relatives, friends, neighbours, caregivers, landlords, or even professionals like financial advisors. If my spouse were abusive, it would be considered domestic violence.
I remind myself: abuse can happen to anyone, at any age — and it could happen to me too.
Risks I Should Watch For
Abuse is more likely if you are isolated, if there has been past domestic violence, if you live with someone who mistreats you, or if someone depends on you for money or housing. It is also more likely if there are issues like addiction, depression, or memory loss.
How Can I Recognize Abuse?
Abuse doesn’t always look the same, and it can get worse over time if nothing changes. You know it’s abuse if:
• Someone tricks you, pressures you, or takes your money or property.
• Someone insults you, threatens you, or keeps you from seeing your friends and family.
• Someone stops you from practicing your faith or uses your beliefs against you.
• Someone forces sexual activity on you or doesn’t respect your privacy.
• Someone doesn’t give you the food, care, or support you need.
• Someone hits you, pushes you, or handles you roughly.
Warning Signs I Can Notice
You should pay attention if you:
• Have injuries you can’t explain.
• Feel depressed, withdrawn, or fearful.
• Stop going to your usual social or faith activities.
• Notice money, possessions, or services going missing.
• Are left alone too often, or don’t have food, glasses, hearing aids, or proper clothing.
• Are not allowed to make their own choices, see people alone, or use the phone.
What I Can Do
If you feel you may be abused, or if you see it happening to a friend, you can:
1. See it — Take warning signs seriously.
2. Name it — Speak up, gently and without judgment.
3. Check it — Ask questions: “Am I okay? Do I feel safe? Is someone hurting me? How can I get help?”
If you ever feel in immediate danger, I will call the police right away.