It is important for everyone to know their rights, including the elderly. While the legal recourse is available, elders and their caregivers should approach Family Service Centres for help with problems or caregiving issues first.

The Women's Charter protects the victim against family violence, which may be physical or psychological. The victim can apply for a Protection Order from the Family Court to restrain the abuser from using violence. Where the injury is serious such as through the use of a weapon, or where there is financial abuse, the Penal Code can be applied.

In situations where a victim is of unsound mind, any person related by blood or marriage to the elderly, can apply to the Court to help the victim through the Mental Disorder and Treatment Act.

The Maintenance of Parents Act allows the elderly to seek maintenance from their children if they are unable to provide for themselves.

A synopsis of the various legislations relating to the abuse is provided in the Table.