Elder abuse
Elder abuse is any action or lack of action that brings harm to an older person by someone who is in a relationship of trust (such as caregiver or family member). This definition has expanded over time to include several different types of abuse (physical, psychological or emotional, sexual, financial, and neglect). Not surprisingly, being exposed to abuse puts you at greater risk for poor health.
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Elder abuse in rural and remote communities
Older adults living in rural or remote communities are more vulnerable to abuse due to geographic isolation and lack of access to services and transportation. -
Sexual assaults against older adults in nursing homes: recognizing the signs and asking for help
Sexual assault is one of the most heinous forms of abuse, and some older adults living in long-term care facilities, assisted-living centres and nursing homes may become victims. Stay on the lookout for signs of physical and sexual abuse. If you see something, say something. -
A safe place: Fostering older adults’ sense of security
Fear of crime is associated with negative effects on health and well-being, regardless of age. This fear can be amplified among older adults who are vulnerable, frail, socially isolated, and who no longer benefit from the same family and community support. Discover what the research tells us about strategies to reduce crime and reduce the fear of crime in your community. -
Older adults increasingly targeted by fraud and scams
Financial fraud targeted at the aging population is a serious problem with both monetary and health-related consequences that is likely to continue escalating. Without development of prevention efforts, it’s estimated that the number of cases could nearly double in the next two to three decades. -
Are you a victim of abuse?
Abuse and neglect of older adults can take many forms, but abuse cases are rarely reported. We need more robust strategies to identify, evaluate and respond to elder abuse. -
Brushing teeth can save lives! The quality of oral health among seniors points to neglect and shows we need to 'brush up' on mouth care
The importance of brushing your teeth is highly under-rated. In fact not brushing your teeth or maintaining good oral hygiene puts you at risk for serious health complications. This may be the case in some long term care homes where neglect of oral health may be a form of elder abuse. -
Elder abuse just next door! Part 4: What are the benefits and harms of interventions to those experiencing elder abuse?
In this final blog from a 4-part series, we examine the benefits and harms of interventions to help those experiencing elder abuse. -
Elder abuse just next door! Part 3: What do Canadians believe about abuse compared to the evidence of the size of the problem?
In part 3 of this 4 part series we examine public opinion about elder abuse. This is compared to known rates of abuse in Canada and internationally. -
Elder abuse just next door! Part 2: What are the risk factors and types of elder abuse?
In Part 2 of this 4-part series, we expand upon the different types of elder abuse. Important risk factors associated with vulnerable seniors, as well as the perpetrators of the abuse are discussed. -
Elder abuse just next door! Part 1: What is elder abuse?
We often fail to recognize the signs of elder abuse. In Part 1 of this 4 part series we focus on defining elder abuse. Our understanding of elder abuse has changed over time. Culture and geography are also important.
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