The call came from Minister for Seniors, Jodie Harrison, and NSW Ageing and Disability Commissioner, Robert Fitzgerald, on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15).
Minister Harrison said it was an important day to reflect and recommit ourselves to action on this issue, particularly in the face of rising reports of elder abuse in our State.
“These rates will continue to rise unless we have ongoing and open conversations, and take action against elder abuse,” she said.
“Most of us do the right thing by our parents but the unfortunate reality is that there are older people in our community who are not coming forward to get help because they are fearful of losing their relationship with their adult children.”
Alarming data released by the NSW Ageing and Disability Commission (ADC) shows a 38 per cent increase in statutory reports about the abuse of older people, with 53 per cent of these reports relating to allegations against adult children.
NSW Ageing and Disability Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald said that most of the reports about older people related to psychological and financial abuse with 40 per cent of reports relating to psychological abuse, which includes verbal abuse or preventing access to family or friends.
“The good news is more reports are coming in from a broader range of people, which is sending a signal that we are all becoming more aware of elder abuse and will not tolerate it,” Comm Fitzpatrick said.
Anyone who suspects abuse or has experienced it, are encouraged to call the NSW Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline on 1800 628 221 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm).
In an emergency, call 000.
