Elder abuse is seldom discussed, yet worldwide, an estimated 1% to 10% of seniors experience it. And because statistics are only available from developed countries, it’s possible the true worldwide rates of elder abuse are much higher. It’s a serious problem that we all need to work together to address.

At Normandy Living, the well-being of our residents is our top priority, so preventing elder abuse is of the utmost importance to us. That’s why we hope you’ll join us in observing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on June 15. The more we all know about elder abuse, the better equipped we are to intervene when it occurs or prevent it altogether. 

What Is Elder Abuse?

Because elder abuse is so rarely discussed, it’s sometimes also difficult to identify. If you witness your friend’s son shouting at her during an argument, is that abuse? What about your niece who takes care of your brother but sometimes seems to ignore his needs for a little too long? Where is the line? 

The United Nations defines 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.” Elder abuse comes in many forms, including physical abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, and neglect, with psychological abuse being the most prevalent.

Where Does Elder Abuse Occur?

Elder abuse can occur anywhere, so we should always pay attention to one another. It is most often perpetrated by caregivers. So it can happen at home, in institutions, at senior living communities, within programs for seniors, at hospitals and other medical facilities, and anywhere else elders spend their time.

What Are Some Risk Factors for Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse can happen to anyone. However, there are some risk factors for elder abuse that we should all be aware of. According to a recent study, risk factors for elder abuse in Canada include living with other people, having a history of being mistreated as a child, experiencing financial need, being Black, or having any condition that results in physical, emotional, or cognitive vulnerability. The World Health Organization also lists substance abuse, ageism, cultural acceptance of violence, and financial or other dependence as possible risk factors for elder abuse.

What Can Be Done to Prevent Elder Abuse?

Having good social support has been associated with a lower risk of elder abuse. So foster your connections to others, including family, friends, and community members. Having a strong social network means you have a variety of people to rely on, who can help keep you safe. And it means you can look out for other seniors, too. 

On a community level, it’s important to raise awareness, fight ageism, implement programs to provide caregivers with support and relief, offer money management programs for seniors to help protect them from financial abuse, and create helplines and shelters so elders can reach out and get help if they are experiencing abuse. 

Rates of elder abuse in Canada are rising, with a recent study estimating that one out of every 10 seniors now experience elder abuse. This June 15, we invite you to help us raise awareness by observing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. So speak to your friends and family, write to your legislators, or take part in an event like this WEAAD Virtual Webinar. 

Elder abuse is a serious problem, but we can all work together to help prevent it. Learn more about World Elder Abuse Awareness Day here.