26 September 2023

Old-age campaign shines light on abuse

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In the lead up to World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) next week (15 June), Respect Victoria is calling on people across the State to address ageism and sexism and to prevent elder abuse.

Relaunching its Respect Older People: ‘Call It Out’ campaign, the Agency released a video based on a true story of an older woman who was subject to financial abuse by her daughter.

It said the video was a story of respect, connection and equality.

“The campaign encourages Victorians to learn about elder abuse and work together to prevent it from happening,” Respect Victoria said.

“Similarly to other forms of family violence and violence against women, elder abuse is driven by rigid, outdated stereotypes and the condoning of discrimination or violence against older people,” it said.

“Up to 14 per cent of older people in Australia experience elder abuse, with older women experiencing higher rates of violence.”

The Agency said its campaign asked Victorians to unpack how ageism and sexism may be present in their homes, communities or workplaces and suggested practical steps that everyone could take to prevent elder abuse.

Throwing her support behind the campaign, Public Advocate, Colleen Pearce said one of the most insidious and hidden forms abuse in society was elder abuse.

“Elder abuse is any act which causes harm to an older person and is carried out by someone they know and trust such as a family member or friend,” Ms Pearce said.

“The abuse may be physical, social, financial, psychological or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect,” she said.

“Often a person is subject to more than one type of abuse.”

Ms Pearce encouraged people to get behind WEAAD and learn more about elder abuse.

“It is only by shining a light on elder abuse when we see it that we will start to bring an end to it,” the Public Advocate said.

People can learn more about elder abuse and watch Respect Victoria’s two-minute campaign video at this PS News link.

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