ELDER abuse continues to rise, with an estimated 26,000 older people the targets of financial, psychological or physical abuse in the past year. And, tragically, much of this has been at the hands of family members.
The Elder Abuse Prevention Unit helpline received 719 new cases (almost two a day) in the 2008-09 financial year – an increase of one per cent on the previous year’s calls.
The unit’s research officer Dominica Sparkes said that despite what may appear to be a small increase, it still meant a horrible number of people being abused. “There are about 26,000 older people in Queensland suffering abuse – one per cent is still 260 more people who are being abused,” she said. Most calls – 45 per cent – came from people being psychologically abused, while 30 per cent were being financially abused. “If you take an older person whose only income is the pension, and someone is taking $20 from their account each week, this is a disempowering place to be,” Ms Sparkes said. The unit is concerned about abuse of Enduring Powers of Attorney, and recommends people check with an independent solicitor before signing any documents. Helpline data shows that more than $9 million of money or property was
misappropriated from 45 older people – an average of just over $200,000 per person – during the year. Eighty people reported that their alleged abusers held the Enduring Power of Attorney. Ms Sparkes said 7.7 per cent of calls came from other states, particularly areas on the NSW border. She said the unit’s motto this year – Is it happening to someone you know? – was working, with many reports of abuse coming from the children, family and friends of the older person. Ms Sparkes said some signs of abuse could be spotted, even if the person said nothing. “Take women,” she said. “They generally care about their appearance. If you notice someone who has always taken pride in how they look and they start to look dishevelled or untidy, ask questions.
“If someone you know has always been social and active, and their activities start to wane, ask questions.
“It may just be an illness or ageing, but the onus is on us, as a community, to ask questions and keep connected with people.” The unit believes much abuse still goes unreported. “We need a lot more awareness to get people to understand it is a real issue,” Ms Sparkes said. It was often difficult for an older person to decide to speak to someone about abuse. “Sometimes it is better the devil you know,” she said.
“Sometimes they have much to lose.
“Often, the grandkids are used as a threat.
“Imagine being told by your abuser that if they do not get what they want, you will never see your grandkids again.” Elder abuse helpline 1300-651-192. |
