Elder abuse is a contemporary issue that, given the projected demographics, is expected to intensify over the coming years.
By 2031, one in four people living in Ottawa will be over 65 years old, with the largest cohort of this demographic being between 79 and 84 years.
The Ottawa Police Elder Abuse section is staffed by specialized police officers who investigate all allegations of elder abuse (including vulnerable adults 18 years and over). They investigate situations where there is a relationship of trust or dependence between the victim and their abuser. The Partner Assault unit investigates cases of domestic violence.
A vulnerable adult is considered any adult who depends on others to meet everyday needs because they have a mental illness or developmental disability and require long-term or indefinite care due to age or medical condition.