Page 3 - Seniors United Now

Neighbours, Friends and Families for Older Adults

What We All Need to

Know About Abuse

n “Ageism” is discrimination against older adults
because of their age. Ageism is a factor in abuse
of older adults.
n Everyone has the right to live without fear.

n Everyone has the right to have control over their
life.
n It is abuse if someone uses their influence or ability
to limit or control the rights and freedoms of an
older adult.
n The abuse is never the older adult’s fault.
n Most older adults who experience abuse are healthy
and capable of making their own decisions.
n Many types of abuse are against the law; all abuse is
unacceptable.
n Older people affected by abuse are often isolated
and it can be hard to see the signs.
n Impolite behaviour or rudeness is not abuse—it is
important to understand that abuse means there is
an abuse of power involved.

n You cannot control the abusive person’s behaviour.
n It is not your responsibility to “make” the abuse
stop, but you can help older adults find support.
n Everyone in an abusive relationship needs help.