PREVENTING ABUSE For more information on ELDER ABUSE ...

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0 For emotional support contact: The Distress Centre at. (416) 408-HELP (4357). 3 To report Elder Abuse please call: Sen
PREVENTING ABUSE 3 Whether you are living in a private home or an institution, know your rights and ask for advice.

3 Consider a power of attorney for your finances, should you ever become dependent.

0 Check with a lawyer or public trustee before signing a power of attorney. Familiarize yourself with your IT^'*' financial situation and use caution if lending money to others.

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Toronto Police Service

EMERGENCY

3 Have your pension cheques deposited directly into your bank account.

Be cautious about who you permit to reside in your home - especially those with drug, alcohol, financial or psychological problems.

3 Be aware of available services housekeeping, meals-on-wheels, transportation etc.

0 For emotional support contact: The Distress Centre at (416) 408-HELP (4357)

3 To report Elder Abuse please call: Senior Crime Stoppers at (416)222-TIPS

Police Non-Emergency

416-808-2222

For more information on ELDER ABUSE - please contact the Crime Prevention Officer at your local Police Division. Visit our Website www.torontopolice.on.ca Wofffcing TogçthÃto Prwvant Crime...

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Elder Abuse is harm to someone over the age of 65, by someone in a position of trust or authority. The abuser may be a family member, neighbour, nurse, landlord, or any other caregiver. At least four percent of the senior population are victims of elder abuse. This means that in Toronto, 10,000 seniors are potential victims.

REASONS WHY ABUSE. IS SELDOM REPORTED 3 Victims believe the police or other

3 Helplessness 3 Hesitation to talk openly 3 Fear/Agitation 3 DepressiodDenial

INDICATORS OF FINANCIAL ABUSE

Crime prevention and public awareness are necessary to reduce the fear of crime and improve the quality of life for seniors in our society.

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3 Physical 3 EmotionaVPsychological 0 Financial Z) Neglect

INEMCATORS OF HYSICALABUSE 3 Cuts, bruises, wefts 3 Unexplained injuries 3 Broken Bones 3

Bums

3 Power of Attorney has been changed Lost jewellery or other valuables Change in level of care Not having money for the necessaries of life, for example hearing aids or

glasses

3 Seniors signing legal documents they do not understand

INEXCATORS OF NEGLEffTI 3 Senior is inadequately clothed 3 Senior is malnourished or dehydrated 3 Senior has an untreated medical condition or injury History of accidents or injuries

3 3 Poor skin condition or hygiene

agencies can't help 3 Victims fear being placed in an institution 3 Victims do not know their rights 3 Victims do not speak English and believe the police are not able to understand them 3 Victims feel ashamed because their caregivers mistreat them 3 Victims or others are unaware of the available support services 3 Others do not want to get involved Elder abuse may happen to any older person regardless of gender, culture, race, financial status, mental or physical condition. Abuse may occur more frequently to older persons who are socially isolated.

The police will investigate and lay charges where appropriate. To obtain further information or guidance, you may contact the Toronto Police Service at: