"I don't deserve to be treated this way"

What is Elder Abuse

Elder abuse is an action by a person in a position of trust that causes harm to an older person. Elder abuse can happen to any senior. Many people affected by elder abuse are reluctant to talk about it. Often the abuser is a family member.

back to top

Types of Abuse

Physical Abuse

"I am not as independent as I used to be. I need help with certain tasks. My daughter helps me but I am ashamed to admit that sometimes she shakes me and even hits me."

Abuse is physical if somebody hits you or handles you roughly.

Sexual Abuse

"My husband has always been very controlling. He has never hit me but lately he pressures me into sexual activity."

Abuse is sexual if somebody forces you to engage in sexual activity. This may include verbal or suggestive behaviour, not respecting personal privacy, and sexual intercourse.

Psychological Abuse

"I don't have a big family and have outlived most of my friends. My niece is the only family member I see regularly. She says I'm lazy and should be thankful that I have her to take care of me."

Abuse is psychological if somebody threatens you, insults you, intimidates you, humiliates you, treats you like a child or does not allow you to see your family and friends.

Financial Abuse

"I have been living with my daughter and son-in-law since my wife passed away. Last week, my son-in-law asked me to sign a power of attorney so that he could help with my affairs. I'm not sure what this document is but he is insisting that I sign it."

Abuse is financial if somebody tricks, threatens, or persuades you out of your money, property or possessions. Sometimes they might influence or force you to change your will, sign a power of attorney or cash your cheques without your knowledge.

Neglect

"A friend moved from her apartment to her son's home a few months ago. I have only seen her twice since. Last week I went to her son's place to see her and he never left us alone. I noticed a drastic change in her appearance. Her hair was messy, she didn't have her dentures in and she had old food stains on her blouse. I am very worried about her."

Neglect is when your caregiver or somebody else you trust withholds care, food and/or emotional support. Neglect may be intentional or unintentional. Sometimes those we trust to provide care do not have the necessary knowledge, experience or ability.

back to top

Preventing Elder Abuse

The following may help you stay safe:

• Stay sociable. Maintain and add to your network of friends and acquaintances.
• Develop a "buddy system" with a friend outside the home. Plan for at least weekly contact and share openly with this person.
• Ask friends to visit you often.
• Participate in community activities.
• Have your own telephone. Post and open your own mail.
• Arrange to have your pension cheques or other income deposited directly into your bank account.
• Get legal advice about arrangements you can make now for possible future disability; example: power of attorney.
• Keep accurate records, accounts and lists of property and assets available for examination by someone you trust.
• Review your will periodically and do not make changes to it without discussing with a trusted family member or friend.
• Discuss your future plans with your attorney, physician or family members.
• Only give up control of your property or assets when you decide you cannot manage them.
• Ask for help when you need it.

back to top

Help is Available

Nobody ever deserves to be abused or neglected. Help is available through the Manitoba Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat.

• The toll-free Seniors Abuse Line is a confidential service that provides seniors and others with information on elder abuse.
• The abuse line staff can provide information on community resources and support services available to help. However, the choices are always yours to make; no one will act without your consent.

back to top

Other Options

• Calling the Seniors Abuse Line is not the only way to get help. Talking to a neighbour, doctor, public health nurse, clergy, police officer or any trusted individual may also be helpful.

back to top

What is the Manitoba Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat

The Manitoba Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat provides support to the Minister responsible for Seniors to ensure the needs and concerns of seniors are reflected through legislation, public policy and programs. It provides a central source of information and referral for seniors and their families, seniors' organizations and government departments.

The Secretariat has an elder abuse consultant working with communities and regions to increase public awareness and educate Manitobans about elder abuse. The consultant also works with regions to ensure that services and supports are available and accessible to abused older adults.

SENIORS ABUSE LINE:
945-1884
1-888-896-7183 (toll-free)

back to top