January 25, 2013
Legislation Protecting Canada's Seniors Comes Into Force
On January 13, 2013, a new Federal law called the Protecting Canada’s Seniors Act came into force. The Act better protects seniors by ensuring tougher sentences for those who take advantage of elderly Canadians. Under the amendments to the Criminal Code, evidence that an offence had a significant impact on the victims due to their age – and other personal circumstances such as their health or financial situation – will now be considered an aggravating factor for sentencing purposes.
The following PLEIS-NB resources are available on abuse of seniors and disabled adults:
- Preventing Abuse and Neglect of Seniors (booklet)
- Are You Dating? - Older Adults and Healthy Relationships
- Adults with Disabilities may be at risk
More information about elder abuse can be found at www.seniors.gc.ca.
An online version of the Protecting Canada’s Seniors Act is available at http://www.parl.gc.ca/HousePublications/Publication.aspx?Language=E&Mode=1&DocId=5942517&File=4
