Elder abuse is a serious issue and a growing problem. Studies indicates that ten percent of older adults living in North America experiences some type of elder abuse or neglect each year. In Ontario, an estimated 200,000 seniors aged 65 have experienced or are experiencing some forms of elder abuse. This number is likely to double by 2036. The World Health Organization defined elder abuse as a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person. It occurs when there is an imbalance of control. The abuser either limits or takes control over the rights and freedoms of the senior.
There are seven types of elder abuse: Neglect; Physical abuse; Sexual abuse; Abandonment; Emotional or Psychological abuse; Financial abuse; and Self-neglect. These types of abuse can lead to physical or emotional harm and even death. Most types of elder abuse are committed by trusted individuals, like family, friends, or health care providers. However, seniors are more likely to self-report financial exploitation than emotional abuse, physical abuse, or neglect. Psychological abuse is the most common type of elder abuse.
If you know someone who is experiencing some form of elder abuse, please do not hesitate to contact the Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario (EAPO) – a provincial organization recognized for its leadership in elder abuse prevention in the province, providing education, training, resource development and information about the increasingly complex issues of elder abuse. EAPO ha 30 local area Elder Abuse Networks across Ontario, to meet the unique needs of their local community in preventing elder abuse. They can be contacted via phone at (416) 916-6728 or through their Seniors Safety Line at 1-866-299-1011