Elder Abuse Awareness Day last week (15 June) prompted ACT Policing to urge the community to be aware of the signs that such abuse may be happening.
Officer in Charge Community Safety, Station Sergeant Jeff Knight said elder abuse was any behaviour or act that harmed an older person by someone with whom they had a trusting relationship.
“There are six types of elder abuse: financial, psychological, sexual, neglect, physical and social isolation,” Station Sergeant Knight said.
“Increasing in prevalence, only one in five cases of elder abuse are reported in Australia.”
He said everyone had a responsibility to treat members of the community with respect, particularly the elderly.
“This underreported crime has detrimental impacts for some of the most vulnerable people in our community,” Station Sergeant Knight said.
“We all have a responsibility to look after one another and ensure everyone is treated with respect.”
He said some indications that elder abuse may be occurring include isolation from friends and visitors, excessive or increasing control, abusing power of attorney, abandonment and intimating and bullying behaviour.
Station Sergeant Knight said signs someone may be the victim of elder abuse included unpaid bills, injuries, inconsistent behaviour, a decrease in their living conditions and appearance, little or no decision-making, a withdrawn and fearful appearance, and stress when certain people are around.
“If you see any behaviour that indicates elder abuse, call the police for advice on 131 444,” he said.
