Dementia Australia has welcomed the Federal Government’s establishment of Elder Abuse Action Australia to help protect the rights of older Australians.
Speaking on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said that elder abuse in Australia is a serious issue that directly impacts the wellbeing of older Australians, especially those who are living with dementia.
"Based on international indicators, it is estimated that between 2 per cent and 10 per cent of older Australians experience elder abuse in any given year, with the prevalence of neglect possibly higher[1]," Ms McCabe said.
"People living with dementia and other forms of cognitive impairment have a heightened risk of abuse as they may find it difficult to comprehend, recall, or report their abuse. Even if reported, these reports may sometimes be dismissed as being unreliable.
"Improved levels of training, education and support for people working with or caring for someone living with dementia is needed to minimise the risk of abuse.
"Dementia Australia welcomes the establishment of Elder Abuse Action Australia and their commitment to promote the safety, dignity, equality, health and independence of older Australians through education, capacity building, data gathering and research."
Dementia Australia provides a range of education and services to help people working with or caring for people living with dementia, to enhance the quality of life of the person living with dementia and reduce the potential for abuse. ---F
