32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE Securing Our Community... Strengthening Our Commitment
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2 www.rnca.ca Proud Sponsors of the RNC Association 32nd Annual Community Guide, Senior Abuse Awareness MDI Contracting is a locally owned & operated multi-service commerical diving company with its base on the Avalon Peninsula, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada. 1 (709) 770-5598 philrobbenjanitorial.ca We offer more than just janitorial servies We sell different kinds of janitorial equipment such as auto scrubbers, floor burnishers, floor buffers, mop heads, buffer pad, bucket wringer and mroe at the lowest price in town. OTHER SERVICES WE OFFER • WINDOW CLEANING • COMMERCIAL BATHROOM SERVICE • CONTRUCTION CLEAN UP Looking For Excellent Reliable • Industrial / Commercial Cleaning Service • Office Cleaning Service You Can Trust Us To Do The Job Right... We guarantee that you will get the best clean of your home at the lowest price with the highest quality. Customer satisfaction is our primary goal and we strive to attain it.
3 www.rnca.ca Thank you to the residents and businesses of Newfoundland and Labrador for supporting our 32nd Annual RNC Association Crime Prevention Guide! Over the past 30 years, the generous support from citizens and businesses in our community has helped us to deliver valuable public safety information to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. This year’s community guide focuses on “Senior Abuse Awareness”. We are proud to support The Canadian Red Cross’s Friendly Calls Program with a portion of the proceeds from our community guide. The Canadian Red Cross Friendly Calls Program helps address issues of isolation and loneliness which have become heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program pairs a trained Red Cross volunteer or staff member with an adult who is feeling isolated or lonely, who may have limited social and family connections, or who feels they could benefit from more social interaction. We hope that you find value in the information contained within this community guide and use it as a resource to start a conversation with your loved ones. On behalf of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Association Executive Board and its membership, thank you again for your support! Sincerely, Mike Summers President RNC Association “Supporting our Community…Strengthening our Commitment” PRESIDENT’S m e s s a g e
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5 www.rnca.ca 32nd Annual Community Guide SENIORS ABUSE AWARENESS Seniors Abuse Awareness RNCA News & Photo Album RNCA Messages Message from the Premier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Message from the RNCA President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 RNCA Executive Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Publisher’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 What is Senior Abuse? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 A Closer Look . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Physical Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Sexual Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Emotional Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Financial Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Neglect Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Institutional Abuse or Neglect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 What you can do if you suspect abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 How can you identify and help older adults at risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 What you can do to keep yourself safe from abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Help is Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Adult Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Violence against seniors and their perceptions of safety in Canada: Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Safety Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 One in six older Canadians experience this . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Elder Abuse laws in Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Do you know how to spot Seniors Abuse? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 An 82-year-old woman was attacked in long-term care. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Elderly Newfoundland woman’s family say she was made fun of by workers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Who can you trust? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Help is Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 NL Police and Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Detective Sgt. Thomas Fraize Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 In the community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Cst. Samuel Jeffers Memorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Moss Softball Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Donations to the Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94 Need help but don’t know where to start? Contact ‘211’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
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7 www.rnca.ca EXECUTIVE BOARD “Supporting our Community…Strengthening our Commitment” Supporting Seniors Abuse Awareness Staff Sergeant Mike Summers President Cst. Michael Hunt 1st Vice President Cst. Shane McClafferty 2nd Vice President Cst. Justin Dawe Treasurer Sgt. Scott Harris Secretary Sgt. Russ Moores Director, NCO Cst. Pat McDonald Director, Support Services Cst. Bernie Morgan Director, Labrador Cst. Danny Abbass Director, Corner Brook Cst. Eric Learning Director, CID Cst. Vanessa Babstock Director, Platoon A TBD Director, Platoon B Cst. Michael Hoddinott Director, Platoon C TBD Director, Platoon D
8 www.rnca.ca The Carpenters Union is proud to support the RNCA’s Annual Crime Prevention Guide, focusing on “Senior Abuse” 12 Smallwood Crescent Marystown, NL A0E 2M0 (709) 279-3643 smallwoodexecutivedirector@eastlink.com
9 www.rnca.ca On behalf of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Association, I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank each and every advertiser and sponsor of our Annual Telephone Appeal, allowing this unique publication to be distributed throughout the community, to schools, libraries and public facilities and also available online at www.rnca.ca, making it easily accessible to everyone. The RNCA publishes an Annual Crime Prevention Guide to educate the public on important community concerns. This 32nd Annual Crime Prevention Guide focuses on Seniors Abuse Awareness designed to help educate and promote the public’s role to identify and address financial, mental or physical abuse of Newfoundland & Labradors Seniors. This publication is made possible as a result of financial support from residents and business representatives throughout the province. With their generous support for the activities of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Association, the RNCA is also able to give back to their communities through donations to various local charities and programs for youth, including a special donation this year to the Canadian Red Cross’s “ Friendly Calls Program”, that has a Red Cross staff member or volunteer call seniors at home to help address issues of isolation or loneliness which became heightened during COVID. We welcome comments or suggestions regarding these publications and always look forward to speaking with you each year during our Annual Telephone Appeal. Respectfully, Mark T. Fenety President Fenety Marketing Services PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE “Providing quality, professional marketing and fundraising services on behalf of high-profile, non-profit organizations.” WWW.FENETY.COM
10 www.rnca.ca 11 Cartwright Plaza Grand Falls-Windsor, NL A2A 1L7 (709) 489-5566 Proud to support the RNCA
11 www.rnca.ca Elder abuse is an action, deliberate behaviour or failure to act, by a person in a position of trust - like an adult child, family member, friend or caregiver - that causes or risks causing an older adult: • Physical, sexual or emotional harm; or • Damage to - or loss of - property or assets. Elder abuse covers a whole range of behaviours, from hurtful comments to dominating or controlling another person's daily activities.At its most extreme, elder abuse can result in serious physical harm or endanger a person's life. Abuse may be a pattern of behaviour or just a single incident. It might involve physical harm, social isolation or neglect. Sometimes, the absence of care can hurt just as much as physical abuse. Some kinds of abuse are criminal offences. Other kinds of abuse, like repeated small insults, may not be crimes, but they can hurt anyway.They can also lead to criminal forms of abuse later on. Ageism Stereotypes about old age and aging can be a factor in elder abuse. Some people assume that an older person's mental and physical abilities are limited without regard to the individual's real abilities. They may talk down to an older person or make decisions that affect them without their input.This is known as ageism. The federal and provincial and territorial governments have adopted legislation (human rights acts or codes) prohibiting discrimination on various grounds, including age, in relation to employment, the provision of goods, services and facilities, and accommodation. Everyone deserves protection from abuse. It can create real emotional, physical or financial harm - whether it's hurt feelings, broken limbs or serious financial loss. It can make you feel unsafe where you live and afraid of what might happen next. Being on the receiving end of abuse can make you feel badly about yourself and cause you to lose your confidence and self-esteem.This can make it difficult to make good decisions and to function at work or in your daily activities. Sometimes it takes a while for a person to realize they are being abused. They don't think it could happen to them. If it does, you're not alone—someone will listen. Controlling Behaviour An abuser may be moody or angry. These moods and aggressive behaviours can increase over time.They may be using anger to control you. Some people think they are to blame for the other person's angry behaviour—they don't see that they are being abused. If a partner, family member or friend abuses you, it is not your fault. justice.gc.ca What is senior abuse? Mrs. Chow doesn't want to deal with Alison's embarrassing questions. Usually, the young volunteer reads to Mrs. Chow in her apartment or helps her to walk to the shops nearby. But this morning, Alison wants to talk about the last time Mrs. Chow's granddaughter stopped by to visit. Alison noticed the teenager taking a $20 bill from her grandmother's purse. "Oh, she always gives me money," Tricia had answered, when confronted. "It's no big deal." "I don't want anyone to get into trouble", explains Mrs. Chow as she tries to walk away. She wants to stick by her family, even though she feels hurt. Her family would be angry if Tricia's problems were made public. "But it's not fair to you!" says Alison, following her. "Now I know why you are short of cash so often at the store." Alison stops and looks at Mrs. Chow carefully. "Would it help you to know that you don't have to do this alone? I'd be happy to come by sometime when the girl's mother is here. Maybe there's a way to solve this without everyone feeling too badly." Mrs. Chow is surprised at the relief she feels to hear this. It all feels so complicated. But maybe this girl understands why this is so hard for her. Maybe she does have some choices after all. Reproduced from the Department of Justice publication Elder Abuse is Wrong without affiliation or endorsement of the Government of Canada.
12 www.rnca.ca 357 Duckworth St., Box 100 St. John’s, NL A1C 5H5 P: 709 753-7350 TF: 1 866 885-7350 F: 709 753-1967
13 www.rnca.ca For older people, abuse can come in many forms: physical, sexual, emotional, financial, or neglect. It's possible to experience more than one type of abuse at the same time, or at different times. In Canada, some kinds of abuse - like fraud, assault, sexual assault, threatening harm and criminal harassment - are crimes under the Criminal Code. Some types of abuse are also offences under provincial and territorial laws. A Cycle of Abuse Many people find that abuse often has a pattern. The tension builds for a while until the abusive person lashes out - either verbally or physically.After the "explosion," there is a period of relative calm. Maybe the abusive person says they are sorry and promises it won't happen another time.Then the cycle begins again. Others describe an increasing spiral of abuse - once it begins, it gets worse over time. Violent outbursts and other abusive behaviours grow more frequent and more severe. The following section highlights some important points about each type of abuse. It also provides some suggestions about what you can do to stop the abuse and to improve the situation. Abuse can be confusing and can hurt a lot. It may be difficult or embarrassing to talk about it but it's important to remember that you are not alone.There is help available. justice.gc.ca A Closer Look Harold gives Edna a little smile as he leaves her at the rehabilitation centre. He's happy they will have some time apart. Edna seems like a different person since her stroke - all her patience has flown away. He tries to help her in whatever way he can, but she rarely has a good word for him. His cooking, his cleaning - nothing is ever good enough. Harold wishes he didn't resent Edna's frustration. He knows that it's hard for both of them to adjust. But it's more complicated than that: he finds he is afraid of her too. He practically jumps out of his skin when she bangs her cane on the table.The other day he suggested that she "lighten up" and she threw her coffee at him. He still has the burns. He's worried her outbursts will get worse. He's tried talking to their daughter. "Oh come on, Dad," she said. "Mom has always been so sweet." But this isn't the Edna they all used to know. Maybe if he talks to the nurse at the rehab centre about it. He and Edna have shared so many happy times together. He doesn't want to remember their last years like this. Reproduced from the Department of Justice publication Elder Abuse is Wrong without affiliation or endorsement of the Government of Canada.
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15 www.rnca.ca What does it look like? Physical abuse is the deliberate use of force against a person without that person's consent. It can cause physical pain, injury, or impairment.This includes: • Pushing or shoving • Biting • Hitting, slapping or kicking • Burning • Pinching or punching • Throwing an object at you • Throwing an object at you • Misusing physical restraints • Confining you to one place or room. All of these acts are crimes in Canada. Physical abuse includes the deliberate overmedication or under medication of an older person. What can I do? If you are being physically abused, you may need to leave the situation or your home.You can start by going to a safe place, like your neighbour's or a friend's place, a business or a shelter. Consider reporting the abuse to the police or call 9-1-1. Stress and Abuse Family stress sometimes leads to elder abuse. A spouse's health can deteriorate, leading to stress and change. Adult children juggling multiple family and work demands can become short-tempered. They can overlook their parents' changing physical and emotional needs. The presence of depression, alcoholism or drug abuse can also lead to abusive behaviours or neglect. An existing family history of abuse can intensify as a parent or older family member becomes more dependent. If you are in this situation - or know someone who is - talk to a social worker or someone you trust. Help is available for families going through hard times. If you've been injured, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. For emergencies, go to the hospital. Some other things you can do are: • Talk to someone you trust • See a social worker or counsellor • See your doctor or visit a medical clinic • Call your local help or crisis line • Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you think you're getting the wrong amount of medication • See the police to get a criminal order (or "peace bond") to keep the abuser away from you. You may want to see a lawyer or victim service provider to get a civil protection order (restraining order or emergency protection order). These are legal tools that can help to have the abuser removed from the family home or kept away from you. If you are thinking of leaving If you are being abused, it is important to think first about your safety.You also need to think of the safety of any children or other dependent relatives living with you. You may fear that your family and friends will not support you if you leave. They may have fixed ideas of what's right for older adults.They may not like your decision. But even so, it still may be better for you and for those who depend on you to leave rather than to continue to be abused. In an emergency, call 9-1-1 Or call your local police. Try to leave the situation. If you can, attract attention by screaming. If there is violence … Be sure to protect yourself or anyone who depends on you. justice.gc.ca Physical Abuse Sam slams the door in a rage as he leaves his father's house. This time he's really fed up with Abe's insults! His hands are shaking as he grips the steering wheel in the car.Abe's been telling him he's no good ever since he was a kid. Sam doesn't know how many times Abe slapped him over the smallest of things - breaking a dish, losing a hammer, failing a test. Now, it seems everyone expects him to do Abe's errands.Well, there's no way he's doing that! If they knew the real Abe, they'd see that the old guy is quite able to look after himself! Today, though, Sam knows he really lost it.They'd started to argue again and Abe came after him swinging his arms for a fight. Sam couldn't stop himself—he slammed the old man up against the kitchen cupboards. It's not the first time this has happened; but this time, he just left Abe there on the floor, yelling that he'd broken his leg.What if Abe calls the police? In a way, it would be a relief. He needs to talk to someone: he can't stand feeling the remorse and the anger at the same time. Sure, he feels guilty; but isn't Abe also responsible? There must be someone who can understand why they get like this. Reproduced from the Department of Justice publication Elder Abuse is Wrong without affiliation or endorsement of the Government of Canada.
16 www.rnca.ca A-1289 Kenmount Rd., Paradise, NL A1L 0V8 (709) 237-8373 www.cdnrg.com Proud to support The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Association (709) 782-3083 Old World Charm - New World Convenience Located next to Sheraton Hotel in beautiful downtown St. John’s www.CaptainsQuarter.ca (709) 576-7173 or (709) 576-7468 Fax: (709) 576-7183 Daily, Weekly, Monthly & Yearly Rates Available! e-mail: CaptainsQuarters@nl.rogers.com K.C. 74 O’Leary Ave., St. John’s NL 709.895.8063 westernpetroleum.ca 345 Main Rd., Joe Batts Arm, NL A0G 2X0 P: (709) 658-3381 F: (709) 658-7292 fogoislandfuneralhome@gmail.com www.fogofuneralhome.com Royal Canadian Legion Branch 10 5 Legion Rd. Portugal Cove, St. Phillips 709-895-6521 Thank you for supporting The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Association
17 www.rnca.ca What does it look like? Sexual abuse involves any unwanted sexual touching or activity.This can include: • Kissing, fondling or sexual intercourse without consent • Continuing sexual contact when asked to stop • Being forced to commit unsafe or degrading sexual acts. Sexual assault is a crime in Canada. Even when you are married, it is a crime to force any sexual conduct on another person. Other sexual offences include sexual exploitation of children and of persons with a disability. What can I do? • Talk to someone you trust • Call a sexual assault crisis line • Consult a nurse, social worker or doctor • Call the police • In an emergency, call 9-1-1 • See the police to get a criminal order (or "peace bond") to keep the abuser away from you. If you are being sexually assaulted you may need to go to a safe place and seek help. Consider reporting the assault to the police and going to the hospital. justice.gc.ca Sexual Abuse Claire hasn't touched her dinner. It's like this every night now. She hasn't been happy since her nephew, Louis, came to live with her. The doctors insisted that she needed someone to look after her. It all seemed to make sense: Louis could help her with her errands and the house, and there would be somebody around overnight. But Louis was so much more than she had bargained for! She dreads it when he calls her into the living room in the evenings. She doesn't want to remember how he forced her to do it the first time, but now he expects her to touch him in a sexual way while he reads dirty magazines. She feels sick with shame. But when she refused to do it, he hit her.Then he told her that if she made any trouble, he would push her down the stairs and leave her for dead. Everyone would think it was an accident. Claire is getting really scared. It doesn't seem like anyone comes to the house any more. She's starting to think she should call the police. It's hard to imagine calling so much attention to things, but it may not be safe to wait to talk to someone else! Reproduced from the Department of Justice publication Elder Abuse is Wrong without affiliation or endorsement of the Government of Canada.
18 www.rnca.ca PO Box 190 Wabush, NL A0R 1B0 (709) 282-5696 Like us on dd Making Youth’s Entrepreneurship Dreams a Reality Toll Free: 888-303-2232 P.O. Box 140 Fax: (709) 247-2630 Plum Point, NL www.cbdcnortip.ca A0K 4A0 Building Stronger Communities St. Paul, NL (709) 243-2686 • Coffee Shop • Restaurant • Gas Bar • Bakery • Golf Course “Smith Snack Services Ltd is proud to support the RNCA with their efforts on Senior Abuse Awareness” K.C.
19 www.rnca.ca What does it look like? Emotional (or psychological) abuse involves using words or actions to control, frighten, isolate or erode a person's self-respect. Emotional abuse can include: • Putting you down or humiliating you • Ignoring you or your health needs • Yelling at you constantly • Making threats to harm you or others • Intruding on your privacy • Making fun of your language, traditions, religious or spiritual beliefs, or preventing you from practicing your religion. • Keeping you from seeing your family, friends or community • Making threats to move you out of your home • Deciding what you can or can't do. Emotional abuse is serious - inside wounds can take a long time to heal. Some forms of emotional abuse are crimes. Stalking, verbal threats, harassing telephone calls, deliberate intimidation and counselling (advising) suicide are all criminal acts in Canada. Many other forms of emotional abuse are not crimes. Still, they can hurt a lot and may lead to criminal acts later on. Criminal Harassment Criminal harassment is a crime. It involves repeated conduct that causes another person to fear for their safety or that of a loved one.You may be afraid because someone: •Watches you or tracks where you go • Leaves threatening messages • Makes threats to you, your children, family, pets or friends • Calls you over and over again, and perhaps hangs up when you answer • Sends you letters or e-mail messages constantly • Sends gifts you do not want What can I do? • Tell someone you trust • Try not to let the abuse silence you •Write down what is happening to you. Keep your notes in a safe place. • Change locations, if you can • If you are afraid, call the police. You do not have to face this alone. Talk to a social worker, a counsellor or someone you trust. They can help you understand more about emotional abuse. Abusers can't always change, but sometimes there are ways to restore and improve intimate and family relationships. Help is available. Elder mediation Elder mediation can be a tool to promote family discussions that might resolve disputes and reduce conflict over issues involving older adults, such as caregiver stress, financial, medical or residential care decisions. By improving communication, you and your family can learn how to take better care of yourself and each other. justice.gc.ca Esha says nothing, as her daughter starts yelling at her. She wonders why Anila treats her this way so often. What happened to her daughter's love and sense of respect? Esha's back begins to ache; she has the breakfast clutter and the entire house to clean.And now her daughter,Anila, wants her to cook dinner for the children tonight. She longs to say no: she can already see them scowling at the traditional dishes she likes to make. She was very happy at first to come to Canada. But now she wishes there was still a place for her back home. Her son-in-law, Chanda, is impatient with her country ways.And her daughter blows back and forth like the wind; sometimes her comments are just as cruel. Esha rarely goes out; she feels unsure of her English. She'd like to go to the Indo-Canadian centre again, but she knows Anila doesn't want to take her. She feels stronger chatting with women her own age. They tell her that her children ask too much from her. Her daughter says they should mind their own business. Esha thinks she will ask her friend Sakina to come with her to talk to the social worker at the centre if she goes. Emotional Abuse Reproduced from the Department of Justice publication Elder Abuse is Wrong without affiliation or endorsement of the Government of Canada.
20 www.rnca.ca Lee-Ann Rowsell CEO lrowsell@venturecu.ca www.venturecu.ca PO Box 527 4A Station Rd., Glovertown, NL A0G 2L0 Tel (709) 533-9184 Fax (709) 533-9193 VENTURE 63 Main St., Irishtown - Summerside, NL A2H 4A1 (709) 783-2105 Strickland’s Auto and Gas Ltd. John Cabot Street, Churchill Falls, NL A0R 1A0 (709) 925-3233 Proud to support our RNCA 643 Salmonier Line, Route 90, Holyrood, NL @TheWildsNL info@thewilds.ca www.thewilds.ca facebook/thewildsnl 709.229.9453 102 Kenmount Road, St. John’s, NL A1B 3R2 Tel: 709.722.9330 Toll Free: 1.866.512.5800 Fax: 709.722.9231 Email: info@ramadastjohns.com Online Reservations www.ramadastjohns.com
21 www.rnca.ca What does it look like? Financial (or economic) abuse involves acting without consent in a way that financially benefits one person at the expense of another.This may include: • Stealing from you • Keeping you from making your own financial decisions •Withholding money for things you need (food, housing or medical treatment) • Making frequent requests for money • Failing to repay loans • Pressuring you to share your home or your car, or baby-sit your grandchildren when you don't want to • Taking your money or cashing your cheques without your permission • Pressuring you to sign over your house or property or to sign legal documents that you don't understand • Overcharging you for services. Most forms of financial abuse are crimes, including theft, criminal breach of trust, forgery and fraud. It is also a crime to misuse a Power of Attorney. Financial abuse can also include marriages where a person deliberately pressures an older person of limited capacity into marriage solely for financial profit. What can I do? • Tell someone you trust • Ask for help if you think you are experiencing financial abuse • Have cheques deposited directly into your own bank account • Consult a lawyer about legal options available to manage and protect your property • Ask a lawyer what choices you have to keep your property or money safe. • Ask someone you trust to look over contracts and other papers before you sign them • Change your Power of Attorney to someone you can trust • Contact the police, if you think a crime has been committed. justice.gc.ca Jim sits in the sun outside the residence. His heart is still racing - he hadn't meant to tell his story to that young girl. It had just all poured out: how it looks like lending his car to Roger was a mistake, and how he'd thought the car would make it easier for the whole family to visit while he'd been in the hospital. Now Jim wishes his son-in-law would bring the car back, even though he knows he'll never drive it again.The car is still registered in his name.What if Roger has an accident? If only Roger would just offer to buy it from him!That would be the proper thing to do. Roger knows Jim could really use the money to buy furniture for his new seniors' apartment. Everything has to fit in one room now. Jim is afraid to rock the boat. He just can't find a way to confront Roger.What if Roger takes his anger out on Jim's daughter? He knows that has happened before.Would Jim's family still come to visit him if Roger got angry?Would he keep them away? Maybe it's time to check out that computer in the lounge room to see if there might be something on the Internet that could help, even if it's just what to do about the car insurance. Financial Abuse Reproduced from the Department of Justice publication Elder Abuse is Wrong without affiliation or endorsement of the Government of Canada.
22 www.rnca.ca 198 Station Road Glovertown, NL (709) 533-2375 sales@Fab-tech.ca Support our Seniors Today and Always Peter R. Roberts Ltd. P.O. Box 233 Woody Point, NL A0K 1P0 (709) 453-2352 Proud to Support RNCA (709) 640-8007 humbersprayfoam.ca 1256 Topsail Rd Mount Pearl, NL A1N 5E8 709 747-0159 400 Memorial Dr Clarenville, NL A5A 1P4 709 466-4541 19-25 Goff Ave Carbonear, NL A1Y 1A6 709 596-8326
23 www.rnca.ca Five common signs of Financial Abuse How to spot the signs and stop the growing threat of elder abuse. Financial abuse of seniors is one of the darker realities of aging, and one that tends to stay out of the view of those not directly touched by it. It's a crime that's often not seen by the victim, and sadly often perpetrated by family members or close acquaintances. For aging Canadians who've spent a lifetime accumulating wealth to support their retirement, it can be a shock to learn that someone close to them has been trying to take advantage of them. It's also something that's increasingly prevalent in an era where older adults are a rapidly growing segment of society. According to census data from April 2022, the number of Canadians aged 65 and older increased by 18 percent between 2016 and 2021, the second largest increase in 75 years. With some studies showing close to half of older adults have experienced some sort of abuse, it's important for them, together with close friends and family members, to be aware of the warning signs of abuse and what they can do to prevent it. 1. Missing valuables It may be easy to assume misplaced jewelry or cash is just the result of an aging mind, but experts say this is one of the most common signs of possible abuse. Often, seniors will notice this themselves, and may mention it to an advisor or family member. 2. Unusual banking activity Banking activities tend to follow normal patterns, and so a sudden change can be a red flag. Unfamiliar third-party bill payments through an account or requests to make payments on someone else's credit card can be a sign. Even a sudden increase in withdrawals could hint at something. There could end up being a good reason for the activity, but it could also be a sign that someone is pressuring the senior to take out more money. 3. Sudden new companion A challenge in spotting abuse is that it often occurs in a grey area; how to determine whether a family member's requests for financial assistance constitute abuse or a legitimate appeal for help?Also difficult to judge is the sudden appearance of a new friend or romantic interest, and whether it suggests potential abuse or is a legitimate relationship. 4. Unexplained property transfers Transferring property or bank account ownership should be seen as a major red flag Example being convinced either to sign over the entire title to their house or perhaps to make it joint with an abuser, meaning the abuser would get it upon the person's death. 5. Unexplained changes toWill or power of attorney Financial power of attorney allows a designated person to act on behalf of the client in legal and financial affairs. It's a very significant designation and any changes to it, particularly when the transfer is not to a family member or a long-standing friend, could be a sign someone may be trying to take advantage. How to guard against abuse It's important to remember elder financial abuse is a crime, and that police services have vulnerable peoples' units that investigate and encourage the reporting of elder abuse. But part of the trouble with stopping financial elder abuse is identifying it as its happening, so it's crucial to make sure protections are in place ahead of time to fend off or stop potential abuse. A good first step is having a wealth transfer plan in place and communicating it to the next generation or other beneficiaries. It's also important to ensure the power of attorney is chosen wisely, whether it be a family member, friend or lawyer.This should be someone who lives nearby, is reliable and stable financially. Having a network of professionals (financial advisor, accountant, lawyer, etc.) can provide a level of protection for seniors. These professionals can be a first point of contact for seniors or their family members who are concerned about potential abuse, and can also be a set of eyes that may notice strange transactions. If a friend or family member suspects financial abuse, a natural first point of contact would be with the senior. It's important to also remember that the more isolated a person is, the more likely they can be victimized. Having someone close to make checks, whether it's a trusted family member, a close friend, or a trusted professional can in itself be a deterrent to potential victimizers. https://www.rbcwealthmanagement.com Financial Abuse (continued)
24 www.rnca.ca 380 Hamilton River Road P.O. Box 58, Station C Goose Bay, NL A0P 1C0, Canada Tel: (709) 896-3351 Fax: (709) 896-3927 reservations@labradorinn.com Toll Free 1-800-563-2763 www.labradorinn.nf.ca www.apmusicnl.com 124 Manitoba Drive Clarenville, NL A5A 1K7 musicmarchinc@gmail.com (709) 466-3265 OPEN 6 DAYS AWEEK 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm CLOSED - TUESDAY Bishop’s Falls 258-6585 Canada’s Building Store Stagg & Templeman PO Box 309, 16 Second Avenue Wabush, NL A0R 1B0 Phone: 709-282-3553 Fax: 709-282-5553 Email: mike.stagg@timbrmart.ca Mike Stagg Owner/Operator Winner of the 2017-18, 2018-19 and 2019-20 Consumer Choice Award for Licensed Insolvency Trustees P:709-221-5500 • F: 709-221-6600 • www.srstack.ca www.jamesgcrawford.ca
25 www.rnca.ca What does it look like? Neglect is the failure to provide adequately for a dependent adult.These oversights or deliberate acts can involve: • Not giving you proper food or clean clothing • Not providing you with a safe, warm, clean place to live • Failing to provide adequate health care, medication and personal hygiene • Failing to provide aids for daily living, like hearing aids, walkers, canes, wheelchairs, grab bars • Failing to prevent physical harm • Failing to ensure you have proper supervision (if needed). It may also include leaving older adults who are injured or unwell alone for too long or abandoning them. Some forms of neglect are crimes in Canada, including failure to provide the necessities of life and criminal negligence causing bodily harm or death. Why now? As an older adult, you may be at risk of abuse (including neglect) because of where you live (alone, with family, or in an institution) or because you depend on other people for basic help with daily living or financial support. You may receive help with intimate care—like feeding, dressing or bathing.You may depend on someone to give you your medication.These are situations where abuse can take place. What can I do? If you are being neglected - or suspect someone you know is not getting the care they need - you can: • Talk with someone you trust • Talk to other family members • Consult a public health nurse or social worker • Speak with your doctor • Call your local help line or seniors line • In an emergency, call 9-1-1. If you are concerned about an older person's ability to live on their own, contact provincial or territorial government services. Someone there can direct you to the Public Trustee, the Public Guardian or a similar agency. justice.gc.ca Laurie is sure something is wrong with her neighbour Ellie. She hasn't seen any lights on in the house for several days now. So here she is, with her husband, Frank, trying to force the window on Ellie's back porch. She's tried phoning, but there's been no answer. She walks through the house, calling Ellie's name. Her eyes turn away from the dirty dishes, rotting food and dirty toilet. The house smells bad. How has it come to this? She knows the doctor has told Ellie's daughter several times that she needs to arrange care for Ellie, but it's clear his words were ignored. Her family refuses to see that Ellie's memory is failing. Laurie has helped out as she can and has even called Ellie's daughter herself. Now here is Ellie, passed out on the floor - cold, barely breathing, and motionless. Laurie's heart breaks as she calls for the ambulance. She thinks: no more excuses this time! She'll be speaking to the medical team at the hospital and reporting the lack of care. Ellie doesn't have to deal with this alone. Neglect Abuse Reproduced from the Department of Justice publication Elder Abuse is Wrong without affiliation or endorsement of the Government of Canada.
26 www.rnca.ca
27 www.rnca.ca What does it look like? Elder abuse may take place in the home, the community or in an institution. Older adults living in institutional care facilities may experience abuse that is a single incident of poor professional practice or part of a larger pattern of ill treatment.This may include: • Inadequate care and nutrition • Low standards of nursing care • Inappropriate or aggressive staff-client interactions • Overcrowding • Substandard or unsanitary living conditions • Misuse of physical restraints or medications • Ineffective policies to meet residents' needs • Low levels of supervision. What can I do? • Talk with someone you trust • Call a seniors help line • Speak to your doctor or pharmacist • Consult a nurse or home care worker • Contact provincial or territorial government services. Someone there can direct you to the agency responsible for care facilities. • Call the police • In an emergency, call 9-1-1. There are laws and regulations that set out standards and regulate many residential institutions. Check with your community legal clinic or health and social service agency for advice or assistance justice.gc.ca Réjean tenses all over as he enters the Assisted Unit where his father lives now. His sister, Denise, had called him yesterday to say something was wrong: "Dad just seems so sleepy all the time. It can't be right.They must have him sedated most of the time." Frail and sleeping, his father barely stirs when Réjean touches his shoulder. He's found him, sitting in his wheelchair, by the window in the sun. "They barely bother to walk him around," Denise had complained. Réjean gently lifts his father's sweater, only to flinch when he sees the raw and infected skin from where the safety belt holds him tight in his wheelchair. His head begins to pound. He knows he will have to push hard to correct this, but he has to try. He'll start by speaking to the Director of Care, but he's pretty sure that he'll be told they have no choice. Maybe a call to that new seniors' hotline would be a good place to get some ideas on how to change this. Institutional Abuse or Neglect SEE it. STOP it. PREVENT it. SENIORABUSE Reproduced from the Department of Justice publication Elder Abuse is Wrong without affiliation or endorsement of the Government of Canada.
28 www.rnca.ca 87 WATER STREET P.O. BOX 5787 ST. JOHN’S, NL A1C 5X3 (709) 726-1680 HARVEY’S HOME HEATING Web:harveyshomeheating.com Nain Fire Department PO Box 222, Nain, NL A0P 1L0 (709) 922-2951 Hon. John Hogan Committed to public safety in Newfoundland and Labrador.
29 www.rnca.ca Everyone has the right to live without fear.We all have a role in making our communities safer and more respectful. Here are two things that neighbours, friends, and family members can do to help stop senior abuse: 1. SEE it! Learn the warning signs of abuse. Pay attention when something makes you uncomfortable. Overcome your hesitation to help. 2. CHECK it! Don’t jump to conclusions.Talk privately with the person who you think is being abused. If you’re not sure what to do, or if you need support, check with a professional. Before you act, stop and ask yourself: What are the safety issues? Am I being respectful? If the situation is dangerous, don’t hesitate: call the police or 911.Trust your instincts. It is always better to be safe than sorry. SEE it! Learn the warning signs Here are some signs that a person might be abusing their power and trust in a relationship with an older adult: • controlling what the older adult can do and who they can see • blaming the older adult: It’s your fault that I pushed you! • a strong sense of entitlement: I can do what I want! It’s my inheritance! • treating the older adult like a child: Do what I tell you! • frequent arguments, name calling, or threats • leaving a dependent person alone for long periods of time These are some signs that an older adult might be experiencing abuse: • injuries, such as bruises, sprains, broken bones, or scratches - especially when the explanation does not fit the injury • changes in behaviour, such as depression, withdrawal, or fear • changes in regular social activity, such as missing religious or social events • changes in living arrangements, such as previously uninvolved relatives or new friends moving in • changes in financial situations such as the cancellation of services (television, Internet, phone) or notices of unpaid bills • things “disappearing” from the house • signs of neglect, such as no food in the house, being left alone for long periods, or not having glasses, hearing aids, medications, or proper clothing Trust your instincts when something makes you feel uncomfortable.A warning sign is like seeing the tip of an iceberg; there is likely much more going on below the surface. CHECK it! If it’s safe, talk to the person who you think is being abused •Wait for a time when you are alone and not likely to be interrupted. • Describe what you saw or heard. Stick to the facts. Don’t use judgmental language. “I saw him stealing money from your wallet.” • Ask caring questions.Are you okay? Is someone hurting you?What do you want to do? How can I help? • Be supportive and listen. Let them know that what is happening is not their fault. • Encourage them to be their own advocate. Support them to make their own decisions. • Respect their decisions, even when you don’t agree. If you are concerned that they are unable to make informed decisions, ask for advice from a professional. • Be patient. Leave the door open. DO NOT confront or accuse the abusive person.They may take it out on the older adult. Be prepared • Document any abuse that you see.Write down the date and what happened. • Learn about safety planning - how to stay safe in a relationship and how to leave safely. • Find out what local services are available in your area. • Make sure that family caregivers have the resources and support they need. novascotia.ca What you can do if you suspect abuse
30 www.rnca.ca • Assurance • Tax • Advisory Suite 202 120 Stavanger Drive St. John’s, NL A1A 5E8 Phone: (709) 726-8324 Fax: (709) 726-4525 www.harrisryan.com Chartered Professional Accountants The Town of Massey Drive is pleased to support the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Association in its campaign for “Senior Abuse Awareness” This is a serious issue that impacts many people and families. “Building safe and healthy communities together” Visit us at rnc.gov.nl.ca or follow us on social media for current information about our communities. Twitter/Instagram: @RNC_PoliceNL Facebook: Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
31 www.rnca.ca We have a shared responsibility to promote respect for all members of our society. Everyone has a role to play. When people have trouble in their relationships, you may be the neighbour, friend or family member who can make a positive difference. If you are concerned that an older adult in your life may be experiencing abuse, this brochure can help you to recognize the warning signs so that you can help. We also need to recognize the ways our society discriminates against older adults. “Ageism” is the term that describes attitudes and beliefs that cause people to treat older adults as if they were less important or less valued because they are older. These attitudes are a factor in abusive situations because they allow people to believe that they have the right to ignore, harm or control an older adult. What Is Abuse of Older Adults? The terms “elder abuse” or “senior abuse” are often used to describe the experience of older adults who are abused, usually by someone they know and often by someone they care about. It is abuse whenever someone limits or controls the rights and freedoms of an older adult.The older adult is unable to freely make choices because they are afraid of being humiliated, hurt, left alone or, of the relationship ending.Abuse causes harm to an older adult. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines abuse of older adults as “a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.” When a spouse is abusive, it is called domestic violence. When abuse is used to maintain power and control over a spouse, it is called coercive control.Women are most often the victims of coercive control and are most likely to be killed by a male partner. Who Are the Abusers of Older Adults? Abuse of older adults often occurs within the family, by adult children or grandchildren. However, other relatives, friends, neighbours, paid or unpaid caregivers, landlords, financial advisors or any individual in a position of power, trust or authority can also be abusive.When a spouse is abusive, it is called domestic violence or intimate partner violence. Who Is at Risk? I never thought it would happen to me.Abuse can happen at any age to any person.There are a number of risk factors that may cause concern: • Isolation - physical, social or cultural • History of domestic violence • Shared living situations • Dependency on an older adult (for shelter or financial help) • Addiction issues • Depression and other mental health issues • Cognitive impairment • Females are more at risk for abuse HowYou Can Recognize Abuse Abuse happens in different ways, and usually becomes worse without help of some kind. Older adults often experience more than one form of abuse. All abuse is serious and causes harm. 1. Financial Abuse “My granddaughter moved in with me some time ago. I asked her to leave because she used my bank card to take money from my account a couple of times. She said she has no place to go. I feel guilty and let her stay, but I am afraid she will do it again.” “My younger sister lives with me since her husband died. I have worked hard and saved money for many years. She has threatened to end our relationship if I don’t write a new will that leaves all of my savings to her.” “Last week, my son-in-law asked me to sign a power of attorney so that he could help with my affairs. He disagrees with the way I manage my money, and I have heard him tell my daughter that he thinks I am getting senile. I am a little afraid of him.” How can you identify and help older adults at risk continued
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