Elder Abuse Awareness Day - Protecting those who protected us

We all have an older relative or friend who we love and admire. Although they may not be up with the instagrams, facebooks and ticky-toc,  they are the holders of far more valuable wisdom and lived experiences. Alarmingly, it is also possible that they may be (or are at risk of becoming) quiet victims of abuse. 

Observed on 15 June each year, Elder Abuse Awareness Day is as a global initiative to raise awareness about the very real issue of elder abuse and encourages communities to show support for the well-being of our older citizens. 

For us on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, with our proportionally higher aging population, it is an important reminder about the unique health, welfare and human rights issues which our friends and neighbours endure.  

What is elder abuse?

Elder abuse refers to any act (or lack of action) that causes harm, distress, or discomfort to an older person.  This can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, sexual, or neglectful mistreatment. 

At the core of elder abuse is an unbalanced power dynamic. Due to their increased likelihood of being vulnerable individuals and/or relying on others for ongoing support and care, elder abuse can easily go unseen and unheard. 

Reporting elder abuse is a significant issue in itself, with older Australians being generally more isolated than the rest of our community. Many will have outlived their previous support circle or lack the cognitive ability to speak up, while others due to mobility issues will be physically unable to report abuse or escape the source. Issues such as financial coehersion or mental manipulation (ie ‘gaslighting’) can also serve as further complications. 

As with other types of abuse, it is often the victims who develop a sense of shame or embarrassment. With older individuals this can be especially the case as they struggle with their diminished sense of independence or a fear of becoming a burden on those around them.

In instances where the abuser is the victim's own child (or other close relative) it is not unusual for the victim to attempt to cover up the abuse, or otherwise justify it,  in an effort to protect family members from legal issues. In the most extreme cases elderly individuals may be living under ongoing fear that if they were to speak up, things may get even worse. 

Due to these complications the vast majority of elder abuse goes unreported and unacted upon; leaving those involved to suffer in silence.

5 key things to remember when it comes to elder abuse

Above all else the day serves as a reminder that we should keep the following in mind as we go about our lives: 

KEEP WATCH - elder abuse is happening across the globe and here at home. It is occuring in various settings, including private homes, care facilities and generally in our community. 

ABUSE TAKES MANY FORM - elder abuse occurs in many forms including, physical abuse (inflicting physical injury), emotional abuse (causing distress, confusion or instability), financial abuse (misuse of financial resources), sexual abuse, and neglect (failure to provide basic care).

VULNERABILITY & RELATIONSHIPS OF TRUST - Elder abuse most often occurs when the older individual is vulnerable due to physical or mental health conditions, cognitive impairments, isolation, or dependency on others. It is the abuse of a unique relationship of trust. 

AGEISM - We should question societal attitudes and stereotypes about aging. Combating ageism involves promoting respect, dignity, and the rights of older adults.

PREVENTION - Elder Abuse Awareness Day encourages individuals, communities, governments and other organisations to take action to address and prevent elder law issues. It emphasizes the importance of supportive social networks, promoting social inclusion, and establishing effective reporting mechanisms.

Protect yourself: Power of Attorney & enduring guardianship 

One of the most important legal documents an older Australian can have is a personalised Enduring Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardianship. 

These important ‘living documents’ determine who you would like to have in the driver seat, making important decisions for you if you ever required assistance or were unable to do so yourself. 

It's all about planning for your future and ensuring that your wishes are respected and your quality of life is protected. 

More information about these documents can be found by clicking here.