World Elder Abuse Awareness Week 15 – 22 June

Elder Abuse Hits Close to Home‘ is the theme of 2017 Elder Abuse Awareness Week. Age Concern tells us that this theme was was chosen to highlight the fact that thousands of older New Zealanders are being financially, psychologically and physically abused by their own adult children or grandchildren. Three quarters of alleged abusers are family members and most abuse takes place in people’s own homes.

Elder abuse is Not OK – it needs to stop

During the week Age Concerns around New Zealand will be holding events and speaking through the media to raise awareness of elder abuse and neglect. Go  to the Age Concern website to find out more about Elder Abuse Awareness Week events.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5O2yK9w56U&feature=youtu.be

Take Action if you have concerns

Elder abuse is a serious issue in New Zealand. Age Concern receives more than 2,000 referrals of elder abuse every year. Age Concern offers free, confidential, specialist Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention Services as well as providing education about elder abuse for those working with older people/ kaumātua and other interested groups.  If you have concerns take action and contact them for advice.

What can you do to stop elder abuse?

  • Treat older people with respect
  • Challenge ageist attitudes
  • Don’t ignore it, get help
  • Know how to recognise signs of elder abuse and neglect.

The Age Concern website has more information about elder abuse and what to do about it.