Chat, check, change: Campaign targets elder abuse

By Our Reporter
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The Australian Government has rolled out a new initiative, ‘Ending the Abuse of Older People Begins with a Conversation’. This campaign seeks to spark dialogue within the community about elder abuse and promote awareness of available support services.

A recent study by the Australian Institute of Family Studies revealed that 62% of older Australians who reported experiencing abuse did not seek help. Among the types of abuse, psychological and physical abuses were more likely to prompt older people to seek help, with 51.3% and 50.3% respectively. In contrast, neglect saw a significantly lower help-seeking rate at 14.8%.

These statistics highlight a broader issue: a general reluctance among older people to speak out about their experiences. Additionally, some forms of abuse might not be recognised by the victims or society, underscoring the importance of open conversations to identify and address these hidden issues.

Elder abuse is defined as a single or repeated act that causes harm to an older person. It can be perpetrated by someone known and trusted, such as a family member, friend, professional, or caregiver. This issue affects all genders, cultures, faiths, and communities.

To support these conversations, the government has provided resources in multiple languages, including Arabic, Cantonese, Greek, Italian, Mandarin, and Vietnamese. These materials can be accessed at compass.info/campaign/beginswithaconversation/language.

Community support plays a crucial role in addressing elder abuse. Signs of abuse may not always be obvious; it can often be a subtle feeling that something is wrong. Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus stated, “Abuse of older people is a shameful and often hidden form of cruelty and mistreatment. One in six older Australians have experienced some form of abuse, yet most of them don’t seek help or advice. We want older Australians to live enjoying longer, fulfilling lives, free from abuse.”

For those experiencing abuse or suspecting someone might be, several support options are available:

  • Talk to Someone You Trust: This could be a family member, close friend, healthcare worker, or another community member.
  • Call 1800ELDERHelp (1800 353 374): This free and confidential service provides information about available services and supports. Note that it is not a crisis support line, and operating hours may vary by state and territory.
  • Visit compass.info: This national website offers resources to raise awareness and provide support for elder abuse. More information can be found at www.compass.info.

Reading about abuse can evoke strong emotions. For 24/7 support, Lifeline is available at 13 11 14, or 13YARN (13 92 76) for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis support.

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