Queenslanders are being urged to take a stand against the abuse of seniors in the lead up to World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Saturday June 15th.
Major landmarks, including the Gabba, Brisbane City Hall and the Townsville sign, are set to turn purple to shine a light on the issue and increase community awareness.
The Government launched its annual Elder Abuse Prevention campaign today as a reminder that ‘Some things never grow old’, including respect, dignity and feeling safe.
Elder abuse can take on many different forms, including physical, psychological, sexual, financial, neglect and coercive control.
“Seniors have the right to live with dignity, to have trust and respect in their relationships and to feel safe,” said Minister for Seniors, Charis Mullen.
“Sadly, this is not the case for an estimated one in six older people who have experienced or are at risk of experiencing some form of elder abuse.
“I encourage all Queenslanders to take a stand against elder abuse, including coercive control, whether it’s physical, financial or psychological.
“We hope this week’s events and our campaign will mean more people know where they can seek help if needed.
“If you are experiencing elder abuse, or you suspect someone you know and love is at risk, please call the Elder Abuse Helpline on 1300 651 192.”
The campaign encourages Queenslanders to start a conversation with older people about elder abuse to build understanding and awareness.
For advice about starting this conversation, which can be a difficult one, people can use online resources or call the dedicated Elder Abuse Helpline.
The Department of Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services is co-hosting pop-ups with Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia at Westfield shopping centres to discuss concessions for seniors and elder abuse at Garden City (Tuesday 11 June), Carindale (Wednesday 12 June) and Chermside (Thursday 13 June).
Other community events include a morning tea with chair yoga at the Redcliffe Neighbourhood Centre tomorrow, an information session at the Beenleigh Neighbourhood Centre hosted by Caxton Community Legal Centre (Tuesday 11 June), and elder abuse information stalls in the foyer of Logan Hospital and Sunshine Coast University Hospital (Friday 14 June).
It is estimated that one in six older Australians experience, or are at risk of, some form of elder abuse and sadly many instances of this abuse occur within families.
- If you are concerned an older person you know is experiencing abuse, visit www.qld.gov.au/stopeldeabuse or call the Elder Abuse Helpline on 1300 651 192 for confidential advice, support and referrals
- For more information about the Queensland Government’s Elder Abuse Prevention campaign, including videos and other materials, visit www.dcssds.qld.gov.au/campaign/stop-elder-abuse/resources
- For more information about World Elder Abuse Awareness Day visit www.cotaqld.org.au/get-involved/weaad/.
