Page 26 - allcare Connect

INFORMATION FOR OLDER AUSTRALIANS
Elder abuse: How can I get help?
What is elder abuse?
Elder abuse is a form of family violence. This form of abuse violates human rights and is unacceptable, illegal and abhorrent.
Elder abuse is defined as any act occurring within a relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which results in harm to an older person. Elder abuse violates an older person’s basic right to feel safe.
Elder abuse is not a crime committed by a stranger. It does not involve self-neglect or self-mistreatment – rather, the abuse happens at the hands of a trusted person.
Forms of elder abuse
Elder abuse takes many forms and older people can experience more than one type at the same time.
Elder abuse is not a crime committed by a stranger.
It does not involve self-neglect or self-mistreatment – rather, the abuse happens at the hands of a trusted person.
Common forms of elder abuse are:
Financial abuse is defined as illegal, mismanagement or improper use of an older person’s finances, this can include stealing money or possessions, controlling finances without permission, pressuring for early inheritance or for changes to a will.
Emotional or psychological abuse is defined as using threats, humiliation or harassment causing distress, feelings of shame or powerlessness. Often emotional abuse if used alongside other types of abuse.
This abuse involves any action or threat which causes fear of violence, isolation, deprivation, humiliation or powerlessness. Examples include treating the older person like a child, depriving them of services or access to loved ones.
Neglect is defined as the failure to provide basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, medical attention, or using medication incorrectly.
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allcare Connect newsletter Winter 2020