Elder Abuse Awareness: Protecting the Dignity and Safety of Seniors

Older adults are valued members of our communities. They carry wisdom, history, and life experience that enrich families and neighborhoods. Unfortunately, some seniors experience abuse or neglect. Raising awareness about elder abuse is an important step toward prevention and ensuring that older adults can live safely, respectfully, and with dignity.

Elder abuse can happen in many settings including private homes, care facilities, or within relationships of trust. It is often underreported because seniors may feel embarrassed, afraid of retaliation, dependent on the person harming them, or unsure where to turn for help. Understanding the different forms of abuse can help individuals, families, and communities recognize warning signs and take action.

Types of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse can take many forms and may involve one or several of the following:

Physical Abuse Using physical force that results in pain, injury, or harm. This can include hitting, pushing, restraining, or improper use of medications.

Emotional or Psychological Abuse Actions that cause fear, distress, or emotional pain. This may include yelling, humiliation, threats, intimidation, isolation, or controlling behavior.

Financial Abuse Improper or illegal use of a senior’s money or property. Examples include pressuring someone to change their will, misusing bank cards, taking money without permission, or scams targeting seniors.

Neglect Failing to provide basic necessities such as food, medication, hygiene, or proper care. Neglect can happen intentionally or because a caregiver is overwhelmed and unsupported.

Sexual Abuse Any unwanted sexual contact or activity involving a senior who cannot give consent.

Social Abuse Limiting a senior’s contact with friends, family, or community supports. This can include preventing someone from attending social activities, using the phone, or connecting with others.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Some common signs that a senior may be experiencing abuse include:

• Sudden changes in mood or behavior

• Withdrawal from family, friends, or activities

• Unexplained injuries or frequent accidents

• Missing money or unusual financial transactions

• Poor hygiene or living conditions

• Fear or anxiety around certain individuals

These signs do not always mean abuse is occurring, but they can indicate that someone may need support.

Getting Help in Alberta

No one deserves to experience abuse, and help is available.

If you or someone you know may be experiencing elder abuse, support services in Alberta include:

Seniors Abuse Helpline (Alberta) Call 1-866-454-8888 Available for confidential support, information, and referrals.

Family Violence Information Line Call 310-1818 (no area code needed in Alberta) Provides 24 hour support and connections to local services.

Emergency Situations If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

Local organizations such as FCSS can also help connect individuals and families to resources, support services, and community programs.

Building a Community That Protects Seniors

Preventing elder abuse is a shared responsibility. Communities can help by:

• Checking in on older neighbours and family members

• Encouraging open conversations about financial safety and well being

• Supporting caregivers who may be feeling overwhelmed

• Reporting concerns when something does not feel right

Respect, dignity, and safety should be part of every stage of life. By raising awareness and supporting one another, we can help ensure that older adults in our communities feel valued, protected, and connected.

If you have concerns about elder abuse or would like help finding resources, FCSS can help connect you to the right supports.