OLDER Tasmanians can now access free legal advice and help to deal with elder abuse.
The Legal Aid Commission of Tasmania has set up a specialist Elder Abuse Prevention Unit, in response to increasing concern about the rise of elder abuse.
"Everyone in our community, regardless of age, has a right to live without experiencing abuse or the fear of abuse from someone they trust," said Legal Aid Commission of Tasmania legal practitioner Sarah Campbell.
She said Tasmania is home to the highest proportion of Australians - nearly one in five - aged 65 and over.
"There is a concern among service providers that the number of older persons experiencing abuse or neglect is far higher than the number of reported incidents," Ms Campbell said.
She said abuse can be varied and often difficult to define: it might be an act or a lack of action (such as neglect) by one person that causes harm or distress to another person; it might be using an older person's money against their wishes and best interests.
"Abuse can be emotional, physical, sexual or financial, and generally occurs where there is a relationship of trust between two people.
An example of this would be a spouse, a carer, a family member or a substitute decision maker under a power of attorney or guardianship.
"Older people often don't report abuse or seek help due to isolation or illness, reliance on the abuser, cultural norms, shame or even pride."
With the new legal advice program, older people can get free advice about their rights and legal options in situations of abuse and, where appropriate, representation or a referral to a private lawyer.
"Legal Aid has a strong focus on prevention and education as key ways to stop abuse happening in the first place," Ms Campbell said.
"Prevention can include advice on advanced care planning about who might make decisions for an older person when they are unable to do so themselves.
"Education and information aimed at family members or others appointed as guardians or attorneys about their responsibilities is another way of effecting change."
Legal Aid is working with COTA Tasmania, Advocacy Tasmania and its Elder Abuse Helpline, Relationships Australia's Elder Mediation Services and other groups to address these rising concerns.
- For free legal advice and help, call Legal Aid, 1300-366-611.
If you, or someone you know, is being abused, contact the elder abuse helpline in your state:
- WA Elder Abuse Helpline, 1300-724-679
- NSW Elder Abuse Helpline, 1800-628-221
- Queensland Elder Abuse Helpline, 1300-651-192
- South Australia Elder Abuse Prevention Line, 1800-372-310
- Northern Territory Council on the Ageing (COTA) Elder Abuse Information Line,1800-037-072
- ACT Older Persons Abuse Prevention Referral and Information Service, (02) 6205-353
- Tasmanian Elder Abuse Hotline, 1800-441-169
- Senior Rights Victoria, 1300-368-821