What can I do if I see abuse in a retirement home?
This question is for people who live, work, or visit a licensed retirement home. It explains what to do if you see or suspect that a resident is being abused.
If a crime is being committed
If a resident in a is being hurt or threatened, call 911. Police can investigate any crimes that take place in retirement homes.
If it's not an emergency, but you think a crime is being committed, you can call your local police station. You can also report a crime without giving your name through Crime Stoppers. Call them at 1-800-222-8477. Or, you can make a report using their website.
Who must report abuse
What you have to do depends on whether you're visiting, working, or living in a retirement home.
The only people who do not have to report abuse are residents of a retirement home. Residents can report abuse. But the law does not say that they have to.
If you're a worker or visitor, you must report abuse. See Steps 2 and 3.
Information about abuse
Read more in:
- What can I do if I see abuse in a long-term care home?
- What can I do if an older adult is being abused?
- I’m an older adult. How can I protect myself from abuse?
There are also laws to protect older adults with developmental disabilities from abuse.
