POLICE ASSOCIATION OF NOVA SCOTIA 73 Senior Abuse and the law (continued) Neglect is the failure to provide the necessities of life such as proper food, fluids, suitable clothing, a safe and sanitary place of shelter, proper medical attention, personal care, and necessary supervision. The intentional withholding of the necessities of life is referred to as active neglect, and the unintentional failure to provide proper care is referred to as passive neglect. Passive neglect is often a result of lack of knowledge, experience, or ability to provide care. Self-neglect occurs when older adults are not willing or able to perform essential self-care tasks and live in ways that disregard their health or safety needs. 2. Is senior abuse against the law? Some abusive actions are considered criminal, but not all abuse is against the law. Physical and sexual abuse, for example, are crimes under the Criminal Code of Canada. If you think a law has been broken, call your local police. 3.When should I call Adult Protection? The Adult Protection Act protects those adults who are unable to protect themselves. The Act defines an ‘adult in need of protection’ as someone who is 16 years of age or older who is abused or neglected and who cannot physically or mentally protect or care for herself or himself. In most cases, the act does not apply to adults who are mentally competent. If you know of a senior in need of protection, call Adult Protection Services at the Department of Health at 1-800-225-7225.Adult Protection workers can intervene and offer services to help those in need of protection. 4. I am being abused - what should I do? If you are being abused, you need to know: • you are not to blame for the violence or the threats; • you do not deserve to be abused; • you have a right to live without fear; • you have the right to a safe, healthy relationship and to have your own life; • you cannot control the abuser's behaviour; • abuse often gets worse over time. If you are not ready, or do not want to do anything right now, that is your choice—it is okay. But you can find out information about what you need to know, or do, if you decide to leave at a later date. Information gives you personal choice and personal power. For information on services and resources available in your area, contact Nova Scotia 211. If you live in a nursing home, care home, seniors' lodge or assisted living facility... • Tell someone what is happening to you. • Ask others for help if you need it. Staff members have a responsibility to see that abuse stops and that you get the help you need. • If someone is hurting or threatening you, or if it is not safe for you where you are, call the police. If you live in the community... • Tell someone you trust about what is happening to you. • Ask others for help if you need it. • If someone is hurting or threatening you, or if it is not safe for you where you are, call the police. • Find out more from community resources about your options to take care of your financial security and personal needs. • Call for counselling and support. • Make a safety plan in case you have to leave quickly: continued
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