WE hear a lot about domestic and family violence these days, but many are unaware of how deeply it affects the elderly.
Shockingly, one in six elderly Australians report experiencing abuse, often at the hands of family members or carers.
Reported cases of elder abuse have surged by 24% over the past year, and with an ageing population, experts warn the problem will only intensify.
Val France, spokesperson for the Speak Up Now – Stop Domestic Family Violence group, highlights the various forms abuse can take. “The abuse may be physical, but it can also be emotional, such as restricting social activities or financial exploitation through power of attorney misuse,” Ms France said.
“Many elderly victims are reluctant to seek help due to frailty or the fear of implicating a loved one.
“Many people feel shame that a son or daughter or a carer could behave this way, but do not want them to get into trouble, so they suffer in silence,” she said.
The Speak Up Now group, in collaboration with Zonta Blackall Range, Rotary Club of Maleny, and the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, is actively working to combat elder abuse. Their upcoming ‘Safe and Savvy Seniors’ forum aims to educate and empower seniors about their rights and available protections
The forum will feature representatives from the Suncoast Community Legal Service, Relationships Australia, Centacare, and the Queensland Police Service’s Vulnerable Persons Unit. A video-drama depicting common issues will be followed by a Q&A session and a free morning tea. The event will take place at the Maleny Uniting Church Hall on Tuesday, March 11 from 9am-12pm. Please RSVP by March 7 for catering purposes and for more information text Val France 0419 599 042.speakupnowstopdomesticviolence@gmail.com with names of attendees.
Furthermore, anyone wishing to have input into Government policy on the issue is invited to a public hearing on 28 February at the Bribie Island RSL Club. This will inform a Queensland Government Parliamentary Enquiry into elder abuse, which is due to report at the end of this year.