When is Elder Abuse a Crime?

Laws that are most applicable to older adults and abuse can be found in a variety of statutes, both federal and provincial. Where an elderly person is being abused physically, financially, and sometimes psychologically the Criminal Code of Canada sets out offences that may include the actions being taken against the older adult.

Statutes are written laws that have been approved by the established legislative process. Federal statutes are referred to as Statutes of Canada. Provincial statutes such as that of the province of Alberta are referred to as the Statutes of Alberta.

For information and resources that will give you a general understanding of legal issues around elder abuse and possible action, please visit Oaknet by clicking the following link:

Older Adult Knowledge Network: http://www.oaknet.ca/