OVER the past year there have been many reports in the media of the mistreatment of older people often referred to as "elder abuse". What doesn't make the news is that the most likely person to be causing the suffering of a senior is a family member or someone trusted by the older person.
Often the problems between an ageing parent and a family member are part of on-going difficulties after years of conflict. The private and interpersonal nature of this form of abuse often means the older person does not want to report or discuss it as they do not want their family getting in trouble with police or other authorities, and do not want to involve outsiders in family matters.
The most common form of elder abuse is financial - where an older person is coerced into giving to an adult child or has money or other assets stolen from them by a relative. As people age they can find it more difficult to resist pressure from family members or someone they trust.
Some older people are further threatened with not seeing their grandchildren or loved ones if they don't give money. Never rely on a family member's promise to put your interests ahead of theirs - seek out legal and financial advice as soon as possible. Always put agreements in writing and ensure you update your documents if your situation changes.
If you are an older person whose personal needs are not being taken care of, and you are isolated from friends and loved ones, or you don't feel comfortable and safe in your own home - you could be experiencing elder abuse. Take the time to think about your well-being and if you have issues speak to your doctor or contact an organisation such as Seniors Rights Service or the Elder Abuse Helpline and Resource Unit for free and confidential advice.
In February 2018 Seniors Rights Service hosts the 5th National Elder Abuse Conference, Together Making Change, which has many high-level speakers including Anna Bligh AC, CEO Australian Bankers Association; Hon Ken Wyatt AM MP, Commonwealth Minister for Aged Care; with M.C. Virginia Trioli.
Register now to confirm your place: http://togethermakingchange.org.au/
Contact Seniors Rights Service for free and confidential legal advice and information on your rights 1800 424 079 info@seniorsrightsservice.org.au http://www.seniorsrightsservice.org.au/
