Tips for Planning and Security

Sometimes a little planning ahead can help prevent elder abuse.

Plan for your own future when you are well, healthy, and still independent.
Investigate possible living arrangements and levels of home care support.
Seek legal advice about what should happen in the event of mental or physical disability.
Make property arrangements with good legal advice.
Make a Will and review it regularly. Do not revise your Will without careful consideration or without speaking with someone you trust.
Make a Power of Attorney and Personal Directive and review them regularly.

For more information on preventing abuse through planning, see Capacity and Consent.

Do not give up control of your property or assets until such time that you feel unable to manage them any longer.
Keep your home secure and do not leave cash, jewelry, or prized possessions lying about.
Make a list of valuables for insurance purposes.
Make your home burglar-proof.
Have your pension or other cheques deposited directly into your accounts.
Stay active in the community as much as possible.
Maintain regular links with people who may be able to help you in an emergency. This may be your bank, hairdresser, friends, neighbours, or members of a religious organization.
Choose a regular pharmacist so that they can become familiar with your medication history and can advise you on side effects.
Do not allow adult children to return home without carefully considering the situation.
Do not be intimidated in seeking your rights because of your age.
Do not place expectations on your children without their consent.