Abuse of elderly people is one of the most underreported crimes in Canada. The World Health Organization estimates one in every six seniors over the age of 60 experiences abuse or neglect.
Abuse is any action that results in harm to a senior by someone in a relationship of trust like a family member, a friend or even a caregiver. Financial, emotional, and
psychological abuse are among the most commonly reported offenses, along with
physical abuse and neglect.
“Abuse of seniors in all its forms is a crime that is committed against some of our most vulnerable citizens,” says Linda Annis, Executive Director of Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers. “We want seniors, or anyone with information, to know an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers is always an option.” Crime Stoppers works year-round to spread that very message, offering its “See Something, Say Something” Elder Abuse Awareness presentations at places like retirement homes and community centres.
Annis also notes Crime Stoppers has operators who accept tips around the clock in 115 languages including Punjabi, Hindi, Mandarin and Cantonese. “Metro Vancouver is home to many immigrant families who sometimes come from countries with different customs when it comes to reporting crime to police. These kinds of language and cultural barriers can hinder older immigrant adults especially from reporting abuse, but you don’t have to speak English or French to get help. We will accept your anonymous tip in your language.”
If you have information on any crime, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Tips are also accepted though Crime Stoppers’ downloadable “P3” phone app, or online at solvecrime.ca. Your anonymity is guaranteed, you’ll never have to answer questions or testify in court, and you could be eligible for a cash reward of up to $5,000 if your tip leads to a charge or an arrest.
