Safeguarding Our Residents: World Elder Abuse Day

Every older person deserves to age with dignity and without fear. It’s time to stand up, speak out, and protect our vulnerable seniors from the horrors of elder abuse.

The United Nations designated 15 June as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. It represents the main day in the year when the world voices its opposition to the abuse and suffering inflicted on older people

In our collective mission to ensure the well-being and safety of our residents, we use this Day as a timely reminder on the warning signs of elder abuse, and to emphasise the importance of implementing robust policies and procedures to protect our residents.

Understanding the Scope of Elder Abuse

The World Health Organization describes elder abuse as a violation of human rights and a significant cause of illness, loss of productivity, isolation and despair. (WHO 2002 Active Ageing Policy Framework). As such, it is an issue that affects not only the person who is impacted directly but also the broader community.

According to Maree McCabe, CEO of Dementia Australia, between two and fourteen percent of older Australians experience elder abuse each year, with potentially higher rates during times of isolation, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

These statistics underscore the urgent need for awareness and an understanding of what action can be taken when one of the warning signs has been observed. Some key indicators include:

• Unnecessary isolation: Look out for instances where an person is excessively isolated by a partner, family member, or friend.
• Behavioural changes: Pay attention if an person starts disengaging from family members, community activities they’d otherwise attend, the communal areas, or other essential services. Such withdrawal may indicate underlying abuse.
• Restricted access to support: If a person is being prevented from accessing potential support systems or modes of communication, such as phone or internet, it could be a red flag.
• Financial irregularities: Be cautious if large debts start to accumulate on a resident’s monthly account, or if you hear about large sums of money missing from a someone’s account. Financial abuse is a common form of elder abuse.
• Emotional distress: Take note if a person expresses hopelessness or makes threats of self-harm. Such indicators should be taken seriously and addressed promptly.

Taking Action and Seeking Assistance

In the face of elder abuse, it is essential to have resources readily available to provide immediate support. Here are several hotlines you can reach out to for assistance and guidance:

• ACT: Older Persons Abuse Prevention Referral Line – (02) 6205 3535
• NSW: NSW Elder Abuse Helpline – 1800 628 221
• NT: Elder Abuse Information Line – 1800 037 072
• QLD: Elder Abuse Prevention Unit – 1300 651 192
• SA: Elder Abuse Phoneline – 1800 372 310
• TAS: Tasmanian Elder Abuse Helpline – 1800 441 169
• VIC: Seniors Rights Victoria – 1300 368 821
• WA: Elder Abuse Helpline – 1300 724 679

Policy and Compliance:

Both the government and the retirement village sector recognise elder abuse as a critical component of resident services. It is essential for village professionals to have robust elder abuse policies and procedures in place. Compliance with the Code of Conduct and accreditation requirements necessitates a comprehensive approach to addressing and preventing elder abuse within our retirement communities.

DCMI Village management professional development participants have access to templates for Elder abuse policy and procedures in the online Resource Bank. Check out our new DCM Institute portal here.

World Elder Abuse Day serves as a reminder to prioritise the protection of our residents. By recognising warning signs, providing support, and adhering to established policies and procedures, we can collectively work towards creating safe and nurturing environments for our residents.