Next Wednesday 15 June is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) – but what is elder abuse and how can you recognise the signs?
Elder abuse is a single or repeated act or lack of appropriate action occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.
Elder abuse is recognised as:
- Financial abuse;
- Physical abuse;
- Sexual abuse;
- Psychological abuse (emotional abuse); and
- Neglect.
What can you do if you suspect that someone you know may be the subject of elder abuse?
The advice is to pay close attention and see if you can identify any of the signs or behaviour changes, which can include:
- Fear;
- Depression or low mood;
- Weight loss;
- Malnourishment;
- Unexplained injuries or accidents;
- Anxiety, sadness or grief at loss of contact with others;
- Withdrawal or listlessness.
The next step is to get help.
If an older person is in clear and present danger of harm, call Triple Zero (000).
Other vital numbers:
Elder Abuse Prevention Unit 1300 651 192
Office of the Public Guardian: 1300 653 187 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)
The Office of the Public Guardian is able to investigate allegations of abuse, exploitation and neglect of older people with impaired decision-making capacity to determine if their decision-making arrangements are adequate and appropriate, or whether a decision-maker needs to be appointed or replaced.
Together, we can all do our bit to help stamp out elder abuse.
