The Minister for Seniors, Natalie Ward, says everyone deserves to live happily as they age, free from fraud, abuse or exploitation and World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15) aims to increase awareness and challenge age-based discrimination.
“As soon as we associate older age with being incapable, we begin to excuse the rights of older people,” she said.
“We must all positively shift the way we perceive and experience growing older.”
Elder abuse can manifest from inequality and ageism.
It covers mistreatment and neglect, and can be psychological, social, physical, sexual or financial.
Reports to the Ageing and Disability Commission, predominantly relate to allegations of abuse against older people, particularly women.
For older people, psychological and financial abuse are most commonly reported.
NSW Ageing and Disability Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald AM said everyone must recognise that older people have the right to make decisions about their own life.
“When this is denied, we start to see the beginning of abuse,” he said.
“We all have a responsibility to support older people and promote their right to live with dignity and respect in their family, home and community.”
For information, support or to make a report, call the Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline on 1800 628 221.
