Possible consequences of mistreatment of older adults and vulnerable people

The consequences of mistreatment can appear quickly (the moment it occurs), soon after, or even long after the mistreatment has ended. Mistreatment can negatively affect a person’s overall well-being even when it is over.

People experiencing mistreatment can perceive the effects on several aspects of their lives. Here is a list of examples of signs and possible consequences of mistreatment.

Physical consequences:

• temporary or permanent effects;
• deteriorating health;
• decline in functional capacity;
• sleep problems, fatigue or low energy;
• increased drinking;
• increased risk of disease, exhaustion or mortality.

Possible psychological consequences:

• anxiety, depression;
• low self-esteem;
• sadness, low morale;
• suicidal thoughts or suicide attempt, feeling of insecurity or stress;
• shame or guilt;
• feeling of loss of control over one’s own life.

Social consequences:

• isolation, loneliness, losing contact with people around them;
• distrust of others;
• conflicts;
• increased dependence;
• difficulty doing daily activities;
• change in living environment resulting in distance from loved ones.

Material or financial consequences:

• loss of money or material goods;
• deprivation of essential goods;
• bankruptcy, debts or insolvency;
• distrust in the management of one’s assets by others;
• accelerated declaration of the inability to manage their property.

For resources on mistreatment, go to the Help and resources for older adults and vulnerable people page.

You can also contact the Mistreatment Helpline, which is a listening, referral and support telephone service that specializes in the field of mistreatment of older adults and adults in vulnerable situations.