Guelph-Wellington Action Committee on Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Banner Image

Elder Abuse

The Facts about:

Domestic Violence and Children

Dating Violence

Elder Abuse

Talking to Men who are Abusive

Sexual Assault

What is Elder Abuse?

Elder Abuse or abuse of a senior is any action by someone in a position of trust that causes harm to an older person. Victims of abuse often know, trust, and depend on the person/people who hurt them. They may be dependent on their abusers for food, shelter, personal care or companionship. The most “at risk” to abuse are vulnerable isolated seniors. The abuse often continues unreported due to fear, shame and the belief that police and/or social service agencies can’t help.

The following are common forms of elder abuse:

financial
emotional
neglect
physical
sexual

In addition, victims of abuse may not be able to protect themselves if they are suffering from dementia or other cognitive problems. In these instances, the senior may require the protection of a substitute decision-maker or the office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (1-800-366-0335).

Where Older Adults Can Get Help

www.sos-guelph-wellington.ca – Elder Abuse – What Is It & What Can
You Do

www.onpea.org - The Ontario Network For The Prevention of Elder Abuse

Victim Support Line – 8:00 AM-10:00 PM, 7 days/week)
1-888-579-2888

Wellington Dufferin Community Mental Health Clinic – Information Referral Service 519-821-2060

Community Care Access Centre of Wellington-Dufferin
519-823-2550 or 1-800-265-8338

Wellington/Dufferin Elder Abuse Community Consultation Team
519-820-4342

Telephone Support – SOS-Seniors Offering Support-519-767-4445 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, Monday to Friday

Emergency Services

Guelph General Hospital – Domestic Violence Program
519-822-5350 or 519-837-6440 ext. 2210
Women In Crisis 519-836-5710 or 1-800-265-7233
Emergency Housing – Wellington County Social Services
519-837-2670 ext. 352 or after hours through
Victim Services 519-824-1212

The Facts about: Domestic Violence and Children Dating Violence Elder Abuse Talking to Men who are Abusive Sexual Assault