Awareness day puts focus on elder abuse
This critical social issue affects thousands of senior Australians yet is often hidden from public view.
What to do
If you witness elder abuse, or suspect it is happening, call 1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374). This is a free call phone number that automatically redirects callers seeking information and advice on elder abuse with the phone service in their state or territory.
For crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
If you’re struggling with debt, call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007.
If you’re experiencing domestic, family, or sexual violence, call 1800 Respect (1800 737 732).
If you feel your life is in danger or someone you know, call 000.
Saturday 15 June, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), which has been designated by the United Nations to draw attention to elder abuse, educate older people about it, and promote the importance of seniors’ wellbeing.
The term “elder abuse” refers to any intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or other person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult. Too often the perpetrator is a family member or close friend; sometimes they are not even aware of what they are doing.
Elder abuse is recognised as a significant global challenge that is often underreported and can have profound physical, psychological, and financial effects on its victims.
Understanding the forms of abuse and recognising the signs are crucial steps in protecting our elderly population.
Elder abuse can manifest in several forms, each with its unique characteristics and potential impact on the victim. The primary types include:
Physical abuse: This involves the infliction of physical pain or injury upon an elder. It may also involve the inappropriate use of drugs, restraints, or confinement.
Emotional or psychological abuse: This entails causing emotional pain or distress, including by verbal assault and threats, intimidation, humiliation, and isolation from friends, family, or regular activities.
Financial or material abuse: This is the illegal or improper use of an elder's funds, property, or assets. Examples include stealing money or possessions, forging an elder's signature, and deceiving or coercing the elder into signing documents that transfer assets.
Neglect: This occurs when a caregiver fails to provide necessary care, resulting in harm or distress to the older person. This can include physical neglect (failing to provide food, shelter, or health care) and emotional neglect (ignoring the elder or isolating them from activities and relationships).
Sexual abuse: This involves any non-consensual sexual contact with an elder. It can range from unwanted touching to more severe forms of sexual assault.
Recognising the signs of elder abuse can be challenging, as victims may be reluctant or unable to speak out.
Indicators that may suggest abuse is occurring include:
Physical abuse: Unexplained injuries such as bruises, burns, or broken bones; frequent trips to the emergency room; and signs of restraint or confinement.
Emotional abuse: Withdrawal from normal activities, sudden changes in behaviour or mood, fearfulness, and depression.
Financial abuse: Sudden changes in the elder’s financial situation, unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts, missing belongings, and unusual or unexplained financial transactions.
Neglect: Poor hygiene, untreated medical conditions, weight loss, and unsanitary living conditions.
Sexual abuse: Bruises around the breasts or genital area, unexplained venereal disease, and torn, stained, or bloody underclothing.
Elder abuse is a complex issue that requires awareness, understanding, and action from all members of society.
Recognising the forms of abuse and their signs is the first step in prevention and intervention.
It is vital to provide support and resources to those in need and to report any suspicions of abuse to the appropriate authorities.
Related reading: National Seniors Elder Abuse Awareness Resources
State-based resources: Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory
