Together, we can stop elder abuse
Everyone has the right to feel safe at home. We all want the ability to make our own choices in life and have them accepted. This doesn’t change as we get older. Everybody can contribute to a world where people are respected, supported, and empowered to live the way they choose regardless of age.
Sometimes family, friends or neighbours may cause harm to an older person. It can be intentional or unintentional and happen to anyone over 65 years. This is elder abuse and can look like:
- Taking money without permission
- Controlling who can enter the home
- Not letting grandchildren visit
- Verbal abuse
- Withholding or limiting medication or food
- Limiting heating and cooling to keep bills low.
Our attitudes can inadvertently create an environment where this behaviour is seen as acceptable. Ideas such as “older people are frail and can’t manage on their own” or “young families need housing more than people living on their own” can unintentionally contribute to actions that hurt older people.
To help prevent elder abuse, everyone should make sure they have legal documents such as Power of Attorney and Medical Decision Treatment Maker in place. Staying connected to others in the community makes it harder for people to take advantage. It also provides opportunities to ask for, or offer help if needed. Most of all, we need to remember to treat everyone with dignity and respect no matter their age or ability.
Elder Abuse support services
If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, information and advice can be found by contacting:
- Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821, email info@seniorrights.org.au or visit seniorsrights.
- Better Place Australia on 1800 214 117, respectingelders@betterplace.com.au or visit Better Place Australia.
If there is immediate danger call Triple Zero (000) for police assistance.
More support information is available by visiting the Southern Melbourne Elder Abuse Prevention Network website.
For nationwide assistance and to access additional resources in 20 different languages, call the Australian Human Rights Commission on 1800 353 374.