Shining a light on the hidden harm of elder abuse

Published on 08 June 2022

Kyneton Town Hall will be illuminated in purple light from Monday 13 June until Sunday 19 June in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

Purple is the official colour for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), which is commemorated on 15 June every year. On this day, individuals and organisations worldwide seek to prevent elder abuse by highlighting the importance of the rights of older people.

Elder abuse is any act that causes harm to an older person and is carried out by someone they know and trust, often a family member or friend. The abuse may be physical, social, financial, psychological or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect. Rates of elder abuse are under reported, but the Australian Institute of Family Studies estimates up to 14 per cent of older people in Australia are affected.

Macedon Ranges Shire Councils Director Community Maria Weiss said it is important to raise awareness about elder abuse, to ensure older people are respected and included within our community.

“Elder abuse is everyone’s business. Throughout consultation and development of PARTICIPATE Council’s Positive Ageing Plan 2020-25, community members made it clear that being respected and valued by the community was a key priority for them, and promoting older people’s rights, reducing risks to their safety and raising awareness about elder abuse was a key part of that,” she said.

Warning signs may include an older person seeming fearful, anxious or isolated, injuries, or an absence of personal care. Unexplained changes to legal documents or finances are also possible signs. Most elder abuse occurs behind closed doors, so it is important to be aware of the signs, listen and offer help.

Older people can reduce the risk of elder abuse by making sure their financial, medical, legal and other affairs are in order. They must also be empowered to recognise the signs of elder abuse and encouraged to seek help.

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

For more information contact Seniors Rights Victoria on 03 9655 2129.