Physical Abuse

Physical abuse can take many forms such as intimate partner violence, abusive relationships with family or friends, and some cases health care workers.

  • Older adult women holding a cane

    What is physical abuse?

    Any physical pain or injury that is wilfully inflicted upon a person, or unreasonable confinement, or punishment resulting in physical harm is abuse.

  • Young nurse grabbing a older adult female

    What are some examples of physical abuse?

    Hitting; pushing; pulling; slapping; shaking; physical restraint. Over or under-medicating someone can also be considered physical abuse as does denying access to medication by not filling prescriptions.

  • Older adult male staring out the window

    What are some of the signs of physical abuse?

    Physical changes such as bruises, broken limbs, drowsiness.