FINANCIAL abuse is the subject of a new Victorian government campaign targeting elder abuse.
Launched to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15) the campaign - Respect Older people: Call it Out - urges everyone to speak up if they notice early signs of elder abuse.
The Respect Victoria campaign features an elderly woman looking at a photograph of her two daughters as children, reminiscing about their childhood traits but growing sad as she describes how, as adults, one kept taking money from her until the other spoke and stopped it.
Early intervention is critical, as abuse can rapidly escalate and in some cases lead to violence.
"This campaign highlights a form of family violence and abuse that has been ignored and unrecognised for too long - it's time to respect older people and call it out," said Minister for Prevention of Family Violence, Gabrielle Williams.
Family violence against elders takes many forms, with financial abuse one of the most prevalent.
With rising house prices, researchers believe more older people are vulnerable to financial pressure from their children.
Sadly, research shows that up to 14 per cent of older people may experience abuse, which tends to be under-reported and often not recognised as a form of family violence.
...it's essential we call out elder abuse when we see it to protect the elderly Victorians who deserve our care and respect.
- Aged Care Minister Luke Donnellan
"This campaign is heartbreaking and confronting, but it's essential we call out elder abuse when we see it to protect the elderly Victorians who deserve our care and respect," said Minister for Ageing Luke Donnellan.
Mr Donnellan and Ms Williams were joined by Respect Victoria's Chair, Melanie Eagle, and chief executive officer, Tracey Gaudry, along with Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Anthony Carbines, and the Commissioner for Senior Victorians, Gerard Mansour at the launch of the campaign on June 14.
The government has also announced $50,000 for Victoria's first Elder Abuse Prevention Network Framework, to help promote awareness of abuse and prevention through workshops and education.
Seniors Rights Victoria provides information, support, advice and education to help prevent elder abuse. It operates a helpline and offers specialist legal services, short-term support and advocacy.
- If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, call Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300-368-821.
