No excuse for elder abuse

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is acknowledged every year on 15 June to highlight the impact of elder abuse on our community and what we can do to stop it.

Elder abuse is any act that causes harm to an older person and is often carried out by someone they know and trust such as a family member or friend. The abuse may be financial, psychological, physical, social, or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect.

The warning signs of elder abuse may include an older person seeming fearful, anxious or isolated. There may be injuries, or an absence of personal care. Unexplained changes to legal documents or finances are also of concern. Most elder abuse occurs behind closed doors, so it is important for loved ones to watch out for signs, listen and offer help.

Older people can reduce the risk of elder abuse by making sure their financial, medical, legal and other affairs are in order. They must also be empowered to recognise the signs of elder abuse and encouraged to seek help.

Elder Abuse support services

/Public Release. View in full here.