The World Health Organization defines the abuse of older people – or elder abuse – as “a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person.”

How can I help?

There are many ways to support the elderly within our communities and identify when further support is needed. Be sure to:

• Watch and listen – take the time to speak with and connect with the elderly members of your community. Ensure that their voice is heard and respected when they make decisions.
• Encourage and empower – encourage older individuals to make their own informed decisions.
• Be socially connected – people may feel isolated at any age. It is important to support the elderly members of our communities to maintain their relationships and also grow their social network. It will allow the elderly to stay in touch with the people and things that matter most to them.
• Lead an active and healthy lifestyle – encourage the elderly members in your community to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
• Increase online confidence and skills – with an evolving online world, ensure that the elderly members close to you can keep up to date with technology to be able to connect and manage their personal effects.
• Give a caregiver a break – most caregivers do an amazing job but sometimes can feel overwhelmed. Offering to step in, where appropriate, for a caregiver gives them a chance to have a break and you a chance to connect and share quality time.

Where to seek support

The Office of Safeguarding is available to support with any concerns. More information can be found on their website.

Additional resources

• Compass, Steps I can take for others – https://www.compass.info/elder-abuse/preventing/steps-i-can-take-for-others#section-preventing-elder-abuse-webinar
• NSW Elder Abuse Helpline & Resource Unit (EAHRU) Elder Abuse Toolkit – https://ageingdisabilitycommission.nsw.gov.au/documents/tools-and-resources/for-professionals/NSW-Elder-Abuse-Toolkit.pdf
• United Nations World Elder Abuse Awareness Day – https://social.desa.un.org/issues/ageing/world-elder-abuse-awareness-day
• Elder Abuse Awareness Day.org, It’s time to change the conversation about aging – https://elderabuseawarenessday.org.au/