A recent report released by Senior Rights Victoria, in partnership with the National Ageing Research Institute, has analysed seven years of elder abuse cases reported to Seniors Rights Victoria’s confidential helpline.
According to the study, more than 90% of elder abuse perpetrators in Victoria are family members, most commonly adult sons (39%) and daughters (28%). The study also found almost two-thirds of callers said they had experienced psychological or financial abuse, while 16% reported physical abuse.
“These findings are very consistent with what we see here at Monash Health,” said Monash Health Elder Abuse Liaison Officer, Selina Nivelle.
“The report has been released at a time when older people in our community are some of the most isolated, and with isolation brings an increased concern there could be more cases of elder abuse in the community. This is why it’s important to know and familiarise yourself with the signs of elder abuse.
“The Seniors Rights Victoria website and the Monash Health Family Violence Clinical Guideline have some good information on the signs of elder abuse and further details on the process of responding to suspected elder abuse,” Selina said.
If you are caring for a consumer you think may be experiencing elder abuse but aren’t sure what to do, secondary consultations are available. Contact Selina on 0431 453 950 or selina.nivelle@monashhealth.org
You can read the full ‘seven years of elder abuse data report’ here.
Approved by Katrina Nankervis, 8 September