Have a plan for the next time the abuse happens

• Know how to get out of the house safely.
• Have a person you can go to, for example, a friend, neighbour or relative.
• Identify someone you can call for help.
• Have a bag of clothing and personal items packed and ready to go.
• Have the address of the Senior's Safe House.

Keep a written journal

• Write down the date, time, and a short description of the incident, including the abuse and the abuser.

Consider your personal safety by

• having someone you trust come stay with you
• going to stay with someone you trust
• communicating acceptable rules

Secure your home by

• changing door locks
• using call display to screen phone calls
• changing your phone number and having it unlisted

Secure your mail by

• redirecting your mail to a safe location
• obtaining a post office box

Secure your bank accounts / credit cards / bank cards (ATM) by

• closing your account
• opening a new account solely in your name
• changing the P.I.N. (Personal Information Number) on cards so only you have access
• keeping bank cards (ATM), credit cards, and cheques in a safe place
• re-directing automatic deposits (pension cheques, GST, tax refunds, etc.)

Talk to a lawyer to consider writing Personal Directive / Enduring Power of Attorney / Will

• Personal Directive - legal document appointing another person to act on your behalf in relation to health or personal matters when you become unable to make your own decisions.
• Enduring Power of Attorney - legal document appointing another person to act on your behalf in relation to your financial matters, when you become unable to make your own decisions at any time you indicate.
• Will - legal document setting out directions for your property and finances after your death.