Where to Start Addressing Abuse and Neglect in Home Care and Senior Housing

This chapter outlines how a person can address abuse and neglect of an older adult.

Where to Start

If you are an older adult experiencing abuse or neglect, or if you are concerned about an older adult who may be experiencing abuse, neglect, or self-neglect, it can be challenging to know what to do or where to go for help. Elder abuse, like many forms of abuse, usually arises in the context of a relationship of trust where the older adult is dependent on a person close to them or a paid caregiver. In the case of self-neglect, the older adult may be isolated, ill, injured, or without supports that would enable them to care for themselves. Abuse, neglect, and self-neglect may take place in any setting – in the adult’s home, in a hospital, in assisted living or long-term care, in the community, or online.

If you suspect an older adult is in immediate physical danger, or a crime is occurring, call 911 and ask for police.

If you require more information or guidance about what to do, you can contact the Seniors Abuse and Information Line (SAIL) at 604-437-1940 or toll-free at 1-866-437-1940, operated every day of the week by Seniors First BC. This is a safe and confidential phone line where older adults and those who care for them can talk about issues that affect their well-being. Trained intake workers provide emotional support, information, referrals, and safety planning. Language interpretation and American Sign Language interpretation (via videoconference) are available daily.

Another avenue to get help addressing issues of abuse or neglect is to call or text VictimLinkBC at 1-800-563-0808 or email VictimLinkBC@bc211.ca. They are available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week to offer confidential support and referrals for anyone who has experienced a crime, including physical or sexual violence. Translation services are available.

This information applies to British Columbia, Canada. Last reviewed for legal accuracy by Seniors First BC, February 2024.

In law, a form of possession of property in which a "trustee" keeps and manages property for the benefit of another person, the "beneficiary," without owning that property and usually without acquiring an interest in that property other than as payment for their services. The trustee holds the property in trust for the beneficiary. See "constructive trust," "ownership," "possession" and "resulting trust."

Under the Family Law Act, a term that describes the time a person who is not a guardian of a child, including a parent who is not a guardian, has with that child. Under the Divorce Act, a term that describes the time a person who is not a married spouse has with a child. See "guardian" and "parental responsibilities."