Toronto is Canada’s most populous city and as its population ages, the abuse of the elderly is a growing concern for the community and local law enforcement. Reported cases of nursing home abuse and elder abuse are on the rise. The elderly are particularly vulnerable for abuse due to dependency on other persons for care and assisted living. Many elders become silent victims of abuse due to lack of awareness, communication and fear.

Toronto is a culturally diverse city and elder abuse may happen to anyone regardless of sex, race, culture, religion, physical or mental condition and financial status. With the trend moving towards independent community living, many seniors are finding themselves in their final years in a nursing home. Demands for nursing homes continue to rise as the number of qualified care workers struggle to keep pace. Many cases of abuse are traced to negligence – by staff, officials and operators of the facility.

The lack of government funding for health care in Ontario is a key issue that has the most impact on the elder population. » Read more: Nursing Home Abuse and Elder Abuse in Toronto