It may be physical, social, financial, psychological or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect.
Elder maltreatment can lead to serious physical injuries and long-term psychological consequences.
Sometimes family, friends and carers may not know their actions amount to elder abuse.
The World Health Organisation describes elder abuse as a violation of human rights and a significant cause of illness, loss of productivity, isolation and despair.
As such, it is an issue that affects not only the person who is impacted but also the broader community.
Older people have the right, just like people of all ages, to live free from harm, abuse and exploitation. Any actions that breach this are a form of abuse.
Elder abuse exists in developing and developed countries yet is typically underreported globally.
It has been shown to affect women and men, people from different cultural backgrounds, and people with different levels of education and wealth.
If you are experiencing elder abuse and want to know what options are available, call the Seniors Rights Service on 9281 3600.
To access additional resources in 20 different languages, call the Australian Human Rights Commission on 1800 353 374 or visit elderabuseawareness.org.au.
