Bullying and psychological abuse is any action, verbal or non-verbal, that lessens a person’s sense of identity, dignity and self-worth.

Examples:

• Words that are hurtful make the senior feel unworthy.
• Not considering a person’s wishes. Removal of decision-making powers
• Not respecting a person’s belongings or pets.
• Threatening a senior,” Give me gas money or I won’t take you to visit your grandchildren.”
• Treating a senior like a child.
• Shunning, ignoring or lack of acknowledgement
• Verbal intimidation, being forced into making decisions against the seniors’ will.
• Threats of institutionalization – “Do what I say or I’ll put you in a home”
• Not allowing the senior to socialize, including access to telephone, friends, neighbours, or attending social gatherings
• Withholding of affection, such as refusing access to grandchildren