15 June is recognised by the United Nations as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. On this day, individuals and organisations lend their voice to the rights of older people and make a public stand against the abuse inflicted to some of our older generations.
Elder abuse is any act which harms an older person and is carried out by someone they trust, such as a partner, family member, friend or carer. The abuse may be physical, social, financial, psychological or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect.
Rates of elder abuse are typically under reported, but the Australian Institute of Family Studies estimates up to 14 per cent of older people are affected. Rates of elder abuse are also predicted to increase as many countries experience rapidly ageing populations.
The warning signs of elder abuse may include an older person appearing fearful, anxious or isolated. There may be injuries, or an absence of personal care. Disappearance of possessions, unexplained financial transactions, and changes to legal documents are also of concern.
Most elder abuse occurs behind closed doors, so it is important for loved ones to watch out for signs, listen and offer help.
This year, the Peninsula Advisory Committee for Elders and Mornington Peninsula Shire will be holding an information stall with free resources and support services for the community. Locals are encouraged to drop by, have a chat and pick up some flyers and purple ribbon awareness pins.
Information stall
Thursday 15 June
10am – 2pm
Rosebud Plaza, McCombe Street, Rosebud
In addition, Julie Dewberry, Financial Information Service Officer from Services Australia (formerly Centrelink), will also be giving a talk on financial knowledge for seniors. The session will cover topics like planning for or entering aged care, granny flat or life interest arrangements, and other changes in circumstances like illness or disability, divorce or becoming a carer. If you're an older person and want to equip yourself with financial knowledge, book your spot today.
Talk: Financial knowledge is power
Wednesday 14 June
10.30am – 12.30pm
Karingal PLACE, 103 Ashleigh Avenue, Frankston
Bookings via: trybooking.com/CHOWI
If you are experiencing elder abuse, or concerned about an older person, you can get help by contacting the following organisations:
- Seniors Rights Victoria (seniorsrights.org.au), 1300 368 821
- Peninsula Community Legal Centre (pclc.org.au), 9783 3600 or 1800 064 784
- 1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374)
- 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
