Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 121 Some victims of abuse are asked to testify. If so, they can get help and support from a lawyer or from a victim-witness assistance program. Victims may be eligible to apply for compensation from the provincial Victims Services program. This program reimburses the victim for some financial losses associated with personal injuries resulting from the crime and counselling expenses.The police or victim services can help victims apply for compensation. The police can also help a victim apply for some orders under The Victims of Domestic Violence Act, discussed earlier in the section Are There Other Laws That Protect Against Abuse of Older Adults? How Can I Help an Older Victim of Abuse? Victims, caregivers and potential abusers need information and support. Those already in abusive situations need the abuse to stop. Different options are appropriate for different forms and stages of abuse. Before taking any action it is important to ask yourself if what you are doing will help empower the older adult and help keep them safe or if it will disempower them and/or put them in more danger. There are things that you can do. For example, you can... • Provide information to older adults, families and caregivers about... • abuse of older adults • frauds and scams • power of attorney and guardianship • health care directives • estate planning • support systems • the right to be treated with dignity and respect • the justice system • Reduce the potential for abuse by... • reducing isolation of older adults • referring possible victims and abusers to crisis lines, community support groups and government programs • Contact other people who know the victim, for example, a doctor, clergy, social worker, elder, members of the victim's ethnic community, other family members or friends. Talk to the manager of the victim's bank or credit union if you suspect financial abuse. Bank personnel have a vested interest in preventing fraud. • Report criminal behaviour to the police or Crown Prosecutor. Where Can a Victim Get Help? If you are being abused or neglected, or if you think someone else is being abused, tell someone. Advice, referrals and support is available through local police services, social service agencies and professionals. Several groups offer public education on this issue and a variety of community service organizations can provide support. Community Resources • Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse works to raise awareness of key issues around abuse and neglect in later life and to ensure older adults are treated as full citizens of Canadian society. www.cnpea.ca Continued on page123...
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