Domestic violence doesn’t stop with age. Many older adults in Ontario experience abuse from spouses, adult children, relatives, or caregivers. You deserve to feel safe, respected, and supported—no matter your age or health.

This guide outlines how seniors can recognize abuse and find help in Ontario.

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• Physical violence (pushing, slapping, hitting, or restraint)

• Verbal or emotional abuse (insults, threats, gaslighting)

• Financial abuse (theft of pension, forced property sales, manipulation)

• Neglect (not providing food, hygiene, or medical care)

• Control of mobility or communication (blocking phone or transport)

• Intimidation or threats tied to care, money, or housing

Abuse may come from someone you depend on—but that doesn’t make it acceptable.

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• Fear of losing housing, family, or caregiving support

• Belief that “no one will believe me at my age”

• Shame or embarrassment

• Dependence on the abuser for transportation, medication, or basic needs

• Limited digital or phone access

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• Senior Safety Line (ONT) – 1-866-299-1011

  • Confidential, 24/7 support for older adults in 200+ languages

• Assaulted Women’s Helpline – 1-866-863-0511

  • Support for older women and non-binary seniors

• 211 Ontario – Call 2-1-1 for elder abuse resources in your area

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• Seniors are welcome in domestic violence shelters across Ontario

  • Staff can help arrange medical supplies, mobility aids, and senior-specific care

• Second-stage housing available for longer-term recovery

• Specialized shelters may support seniors with memory loss or chronic illness

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• Restraining orders are available to protect you from abusive partners or relatives

• Police can intervene, remove abusers, and press charges if needed

• Legal Aid Ontario may assist with family, housing, or protection issues

• Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT) can help protect seniors from financial or decision-making abuse

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• Counselling services tailored to seniors’ needs (including grief, trauma, and depression)

• Elder Abuse Ontario provides workshops, safety planning, and referrals

• Local seniors’ centres often offer peer support, wellness checks, and trusted guidance

• Hospitals and homecare agencies can make referrals if abuse is suspected

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• ✅ Abuse can happen at any age—it's never your fault

• ✅ Shelters, legal help, and counselling are available for seniors

• ✅ Financial, emotional, and caregiver abuse count as domestic violence

• ✅ Confidential, multilingual hotlines are ready to help

• ✅ You are not alone—and help is just a phone call away

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• Senior Safety Line (ONT) – 1-866-299-1011

• Assaulted Women’s Helpline – 1-866-863-0511

• Elder Abuse Ontario – elderabuseontario.com

• Legal Aid Ontario – 1-800-668-8258

• Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT) – 1-800-366-0335

• 211 Ontario – Call 2-1-1 or visit 211ontario.ca

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