Tell someone you trust about the abuse. Choose individuals who will respect your decisions and who can listen without telling you what to do. You might want to ask them to just listen so that they don’t feel pressure to solve the problem for you. You may need to plan some next steps. Those steps should be realistic. You are the expert in your own life and the best person to decide what you can do to set limits and to increase your safety. If you are afraid the situation will get worse, make a safety plan that includes where you can go in an emergency and what you will take with you. Think about where you will stay and how you will get there. Consult a lawyer or legal service about your rights and options (your local seniors’ organization can help you find a lawyer or service). Keep track of your financial statements and other legal documents. Talk to your bank about how to protect your assets.
