Elder abuse is a serious and often overlooked issue that affects older adults. Forms of elder abuse can include physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as neglect. These abuses can occur within family settings, care facilities, or even in the community, leading to significant physical and psychological consequences for the victims. Recognizing the signs and understanding the dynamics of elder abuse is crucial in safeguarding the well-being and dignity of our aging population.
Common signs of possible abuse:
Unexplained injuries or a history of “accidents,” poor hygiene, bed sores.
Depression, fear, anxiety, withdrawal or weight loss.
Dehydration or lack of food, clothing, medicine, or other necessities of life.
Unnecessary purchases or repairs to house or property.
Unexplained loss or misuse of property items such as banking records or wills.
Below are emergency service lines and safety contacts you can connect with, if you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse:
Emergency Services: 911 or text T911
Niagara Regional Police
Non Emergent issues and general reporting of senior abuse or senior supports, please call 905- 688-4111 if you are in the Thorold area and 905-735-7811 if you are in the Welland, Wainfleet and Port Colborne area.
NEAPN (Niagara Elder Abuse Prevention Network)
NEAPN work’s collaboratively with agencies and seniors to prevent elder abuse and create a safe community where older adults are valued and respected within the Niagara Region.
This local network is managed by Alzheimer’s Niagara, but you can also contact Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario for support by calling 416-916-6728
Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region: 905-687-3914
Community Care Access Centre: 905-684-9441
CRIME STOPPERS Niagara: 1-800-222-8477
Niagara Gatekeeper Program: 905-684-0968
Niagara Gatekeepers is a phone line that anyone in the community can call to help connect at-risk older adults with programs and services.
Seniors Community Programs, Niagara Region:
905-984-6900 or 905-684-0968
Seniors Safety Line: 1-866-299-1011
24/7 confidential and free resource that provides information, referrals and support in over 150 languages for seniors experiencing abuse