Elder abuse: know the signs and where to get help

On 15 June, people around the world will mark Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which draws attention to the unacceptable abuse, neglect, and mistreatment experienced by some older people. 

By drawing attention to this issue, communities are encouraged to support victims-survivors and strengthen the systems that help prevent abuse before it happens.  

This year’s theme, “Beyond Awareness: Making Elder Abuse Prevention Work”, reflects an important truth: raising awareness is only the first step. 

Elder abuse often remains hidden, under-recognised, and under-reported, which means practical action is essential. 

Eder abuse as a single or repeated act, or a failure to act, within a relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person. 

Abuse can be deliberate or unintentional, and it does not have to involve physical violence.  

In Australia, the problem is significant, with as many as 185,000 older people experiencing some form of abuse each year.  

There are several different types of elder abuse. Physical abuse includes actions that cause pain or injury, such as hitting, pushing, kicking, or the inappropriate use of medication or physical restraints. 

Psychological or emotional abuse can include insults, threats, humiliation, intimidation, coercion, controlling behaviour, or restricting a person’s contact with family and friends.  

Financial abuse involves the misuse or theft of an older person’s money, property, or assets. This can include using finances without permission, pressuring someone to sign documents, misusing an enduring power of attorney, or selling or transferring property against a person’s wishes.