Senior abuse is all too common. For 87-year-old Laura, it was complicated by the fact that her abuser was a grandchild with brain injuries. Laura had lived with her granddaughter and daughter for 30 years. During this time, the grandchild suffered an accident that caused brain impairment. Over time, she became mentally and physically abusive to Laura. Laura felt that her granddaughter wasn’t fully aware of her actions, and she didn’t want to report the abuse.

The abuse took its toll. When Laura came to SSSBC seeking help in finding a new home, she had bruises on her arms and neck. She never smiled, and she always hung her head down and slouched. She didn’t know where to begin to look for an affordable home. SSSBC was able to register Laura with BC Housing and get her taxes up to date. Within months she had moved into a new home.

Laura now lives in a bachelor suite with a balcony and a rooftop community garden. She is happy to be part of a thriving neighbourhood. She visits us from time to time, just to say hi. Laura today always has a smile on her face and holds her head high. She is in a safe home where she can work to try to get her granddaughter the help she needs without getting hurt in the process.