Stay in regular contact
with older loved ones call and visit often.
Encourage older people to
stay active in their local community.
Be alert to changes in
health, wellbeing or behaviour.
Be cautious of extended
family, friends or carers who may be seeking financial help.
Scan to learn more about elder abuse
What is elder abuse?Elder abuse is any act which causes harm to an older person.
It is often carried out by someone a victim knows and trusts, such as family, friends or carers.
At least one in six older Australians aged over 65 experience elder abuse in their lifetime. Many cases go unreported because victims feel scared, ashamed, or dependent on the abuser.
Any person aged over 65 years of age is generally defined as an older person.
This initiative received grant
funding from the Australian Government.
The majority of perpetrators are other
family membersmost commonly adult children and grandchildren.
Others can include intimate partners, relatives, or carers.
These crimes must be reported so offenders can be held accountable and victims protected.
Financial
misuse of money, property
or assets
Emotional & psychological
threats, intimidation, humiliation
Neglect failure to provide food, care
or medication
Social isolation from family, friends or community
Physical pushing, hitting,
restraining
Sexual unwanted sexual contact or behaviour
Sudden
financial changes or missing valuables.
Poor
hygiene, lack of food or medical care.
Injuries
such as bruises, cuts or broken bones.
Withdrawal, fear, anxiety or confusion.
Being prevented
from speaking or making decisions.