Elder abuse is usually by a relative or other caregiver. At greatest risk are the frail and/or isolated. What is the right response depends on the circumstances. But usually they will want to talk to the older person to find out what is going on, if the person would like assistance, and what kind of support or assistance they would like. In some provinces, certain people will have a legal duty to respond to abuse and neglect that occurs in specific circumstances by reporting abuse to a government or other agency. In comparison, in some provinces and territories there is no duty to report abuse and no agency designated to receive reports and respond to abuse. But education about the law, an awareness of ethical considerations, and knowledge of key resources and services can make it easier to decide what to do, to identify who they can seek guidance from in their agency or to whom they should refer an issue, as well as make they feel more confident that they did the best they could under the circumstances.

Keywords: Geriatric Abuse, Cruel Act