Assessment for Elder Abuse | Mindsense Psychiatry

Trauma-Informed Approach for Elders

At MindSense, we recognize the serious and lasting effects of elder abuse - whether emotional, physical, cultural, or legal. As cases of mistreatment in institutional settings continue to rise, our priority is to provide a safe, respectful space for older adults.

Our medical experts deliver specialized, trauma-informed assessments for those who may have experienced abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Each assessment is carried out with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and clinical expertise, and is suitable for use in legal, medical, and care-planning contexts.

What We Assess

Our elder abuse evaluations are led by professionals with extensive experience in geriatric psychiatry, internal medicine, and medico-legal reporting. All assessments are tailored to reflect the sensitive nature of these cases, and may include:

Neglect and Standard of Care Reviews

Assessments relating to possible neglect, including inadequate care in residential facilities, long-term care homes, and institutional settings.

Mental Capacity Examinations

Determining whether the individual has the ability to understand and appreciate the consequences of their decisions, and whether they can give informed consent.

Physical Abuse Examinations

Assessment of injuries or harm potentially caused by physical mistreatment.

Sexual Abuse Examinations

Sensitive, evidence-based evaluations in cases of suspected or disclosed sexual abuse.

Who We Work With

We partner with:

Legal professionals
Health and aged care providers
Community organisations and elder advocacy groups

Booking an Elder Abuse Assessment

At MindSense, we make the medico-legal process easier for all involved. From booking appointments to delivering detailed, high-quality reports, our centralised team ensures a smooth, efficient experience at every step.

For survivors attending assessments, we provide clear guidance on what to expect and how to prepare, ensuring the experience is as positive as possible. Additional support materials, including videos and fact sheets, are available upon request.

To learn more about MindSense or refer a case, email info@mindsensepsychiatry.ca

Why Choose MindSense for Independent Assessments?

Delivering expert psychiatric assessments tailored to meet the unique needs of each case.

Expert Case Matching

We carefully match each case with assessors from our specialized expert panel - experts experienced in working with older adults and in identifying abuse-related trauma.

Nationwide Access & Telehealth

Our services are available across Canada, with telehealth options that ensure timely, accessible assessments for vulnerable elder populations.

Trauma-Informed Excellence

Our assessments prioritize dignity, respect, and sensitivity - applying trauma-informed practices tailored to the unique needs of older individuals.

Quality & Reliability

Every report is grounded in clinical depth and forensic precision, delivering the clarity and credibility required for legal and institutional decision-making.

How are IMEs used in elder abuse civil litigation cases?

IMEs can be used to assess the physical, cognitive, or psychological condition of an older adult who may have experienced abuse or neglect. The examiner evaluates medical evidence and provides an expert opinion that validates allegations and injuries being made in a legal claim.

What types of abuse can an IME help document?

IMEs can help identify and document various forms of elder abuse, including physical injuries, emotional trauma, psychological deterioration, neglect, and signs of cognitive impairment such as dementia or delirium.

Is the IME process safe and trauma-informed for older adults?

Yes. Our assessors follow trauma-informed and age-appropriate practices, ensuring that the individual is treated with respect, dignity, and care throughout the evaluation. We strive to minimize distress and avoid re-traumatization at every step.

Assessments for Elder Abuse