World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Greater Shepparton

Council will light up the Mooroopna Water Tower, feature trees in Fryers St and High St and the large gum tree in Monash Park.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day encourages people around the world to acknowledge and voice their opposition to the abuse and suffering inflicted on the elderly.

Purple lights are used on 15 June around the world in an attempt to generate conversation on this abuse and neglect in the community.

In 2019, a Confident Living Booklet was launched on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day offering information and basic tips for those aged 65+, their carers and their families. The information included basic household safety tips right through to the type of services aimed at assisting ageing people in the community.

The booklet has been updated for 2020 and can be found on Council's website here.

"Elder abuse is a real issue, and we need to continue to raise awareness around it to ensure older people are respected and included within our community," Mayor Cr Seema Abdullah said.

"The warning signs of elder abuse may include an older person seeming fearful, anxious or isolated. I encourage our community to keep an eye out for these flags. Most elder abuse occurs behind closed doors, so it is important for loved ones to watch out for signs, listen and offer help.

"There is no excuse for elder abuse."

Other flags can include injuries, an absence of personal care or unexplained changes to legal documents or finances.

If you are experiencing elder abuse, or are concerned about an older person, you can get help by calling Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821 Monday to Friday, from 10am to 5pm, or by visiting seniorsrights.org.au

Seniors Rights Victoria provides information, support, advice and education to help prevent elder abuse and safeguard the rights, dignity and independence of the elderly.