Prevention Suggestions for Older Adults
(adapted from materials developed by the City of Edmonton Elder Abuse Prevention Team)
- Plan for your own future when you are well, healthy, and still independent.
- Investigate possible living arrangements and levels of home care support.
- Seek legal advice about what should happen in the event of mental or physical disability.
- Make property arrangements with good legal advice.
- Do not deed or will your house or other assets to someone who promises to keep you out of a nursing home or to take care of you at home should you become disabled.
- Make a will and review it regularly. Do not revise your will without careful consideration or without speaking with someone you trust.
- Do not give up control of your property or assets until such time that you feel unable to manage them any longer.
- Keep your home secure and do not leave cash, jewellery, or prized possessions lying about.
- Make a list of valuables for insurance purposes.
- Make your home burglar-proof.
- Have your pension or other cheques deposited directly into your accounts.
- Do not rely solely on family members for your social life and care. Seek outside contacts. Develop friends of all ages.
- Stay active in the community as much as possible.
- Maintain regular links with people who may be able to help you in an emergency. This may be your bank, hairdresser, friends, neighbours, or members of a religious organization.
- Choose a regular pharmacist so that he or she can become familiar with your medication history and can advise you on side effects.
- Do not allow adult children to return home without carefully considering the situation.
- Do not be too proud to ask for help when you need it.
- Do not be intimidated in seeking your rights because of your age.
- Do not place expectations on your children without their consent.
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Updated: October 1, 2003
© Legal Resource Centre of Alberta Ltd. 2002
