Greater Shepparton turns purple for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
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The annual day highlights the importance of the rights of older people while raising awareness to prevent their mistreatment or harm. Greater Shepparton City Council will recognise the day by lighting up Riverlinks Eastbank, the Mooroopna Water Tower, Victoria Park Lake and the large gum tree in Monash Park purple as a symbol of support.
Council, in collaboration with the Greater Shepparton Positive Ageing Advisory Committee, Seniors Right’s Victoria, Elders Rights Advocacy and GV Libraries, will be hosting an afternoon tea and launching the Warm Safe Houses Exhibition to raise awareness.
On Friday 14 June, from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, community is invited to visit the Shepparton Library 41-42 Marungi Street, Shepparton to hear from Seniors Rights Victoria to access resources and support services. There will also be a display of cardboard houses that the community have decorated to show what a warm safe house means to them as a part of the Warm Safe Houses Exhibition.
“Elder abuse is a real issue, and one which we must work to eliminate throughout all communities,” Mayor, Cr Shane Sali said.
“It is important we continue to raise awareness around the issue to ensure our elder residents are respected, included and supported.”Elder abuse can be any act which causes harm to an older person that is usually carried out by someone they know and trust, such as a family member or friend. The abuse can range from physical, social, emotional and financial abuse, and can involve mistreatment and neglect.
“There are many warning signs of elder abuse, including fear, anxiety or feelings of isolation, and most incidents occur behind closed doors,” Cr Sali said.
“It is so important for loved ones to watch out for the signs, listen and offer help to ensure elder abuse is recognised and addressed.”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 10 am to 5 pm, or by visiting the Seniors Rights Victoria website.
For more information on the services Council provides senior members of our community, see our Positive Aging section.