Preventing Abuse

We can help reduce the incidence of abuse, but it will take consistent, long term commitment and work in three major areas:

• Listening to older Manitobans and their caregivers to understand the stress and needs of our aging population
• Intervening when mistreatment or neglect is suspected. Reporting needs to be accepted as the only option in abuse
• Educating Manitobans how to recognize and report abuse. This includes all Manitobans and begins with older adults, their families, caregivers, health care providers, law enforcement and the population at large
• Build a critical mass of opposition to any form of abuse against our older citizens

Abuse prevention starts with family discussion and support within families, as well as between couples. Talk about the current situation and plan for future needs. Realistic expectations will be created by asking:

• What does the older adult want?
• What can they do on their own with support?