Speaking out about elder abuse

Elder abuse is a pervasive and often hidden issue affecting thousands of older Australians each year.

Elder abuse encompasses any act, or failure to act, that causes harm or distress to an older person within a relationship of trust or power imbalance.

This abuse can manifest in various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, and neglect.

Despite its prevalence, elder abuse remains significantly under-reported. Research indicates that six in 10 older people who experience abuse do not seek help from professional sources.

This reluctance is frequently due to feelings of shame, fear, or a desire to protect the abuser, who is often a family member.

Recent data highlights an alarming increase in elder abuse cases, with a 2021 study indicating that one in six older Australians experiences abuse in any given year.

As a not-for-profit organisation that gives older visibility and a strong national voice, National Seniors Australia (NSA) has long emphasised the importance of awareness and education in combating elder abuse, advocating for stronger safeguards, improved reporting mechanisms, and increased public awareness campaigns.

NSA supports initiatives such as Raise Your Voice, where Compass and Elder Abuse Action Australia are asking seniors affected by elder abuse to share their stories.

NSA has also advocated protections for older Australians. In 2016, NSA made a submission to the Australian Law Reform Commission recommending consistent and strengthened Enduring Power of Attorney laws to help protect against financial abuse of older Australians.

Progress on this has been slow and NSA chief executive officer Chris Grice has called for greater work to be done to prevent abuse and to strengthen the services that respond to it.

Mr Grice said, “Elder abuse can take many forms including physical, psychological, and sexual as well as neglect, but it is financial abuse – the misuse or theft of a person’s assets or money which is the most common.

“While we often talk about older Australians being increasingly targeted by online scammers, we also need to talk about the financial loss suffered, not at the hands of strangers, but by loved ones in positions of trust.”

Tackling elder abuse in all its forms requires action at many levels, by government, by organisations, and by individuals.

By recognising the signs of abuse and taking action, we can work towards a safer and more respectful environment for all Australians.

If you need immediate assistance in an emergency or life-threatening situation, call triple zero (000).

If you have concerns about elder abuse, you can call the National Elder Abuse phone line for free, confidential information and advice on 1800 353 374. This is a national free number that redirects callers to relevant local services.

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