Elder abuse can take various forms, including – financial, physical, psychological, emotional and sexual abuse, or neglect. No older person should be subjected to any form of abuse, read more here. World Elder Abuse Day raises awareness of elder abuse and informs older Australians of the supports available to them, find out more in Guiding action on elder abuse (COMPASS). According to Age Discrimination Commissioner the Hon Dr Kay Patterson AO, social isolation is a driver of elder abuse, and the COVID-19 pandemic has increased social isolation for many older people. It has provided ripe conditions for elder abuse to flourish, while also making it harder to identify hidden abuse – find out more about the Steps you can take for yourself and What can you do to help?
1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374) is the National Elder Abuse phone line. 1800ELDERHelp automatically redirects callers seeking information or advice on elder abuse to their state or territory phone line service. You don’t have to be a counsellor, just be a better friend, neighbour, or family member to an older person you care about. Be ready to listen. Further information available on Protecting the rights of older Australians and National plan to respond to the abuse of older Australians 2019-2023.
Read and participate in the UN Decade of healthy ageing 2021-2030 that addresses four areas for action: Age friendly environments, Combatting ageism, Integrated care, and Long term care. Find and share knowledge that can improve lives of older people, their families, and their communities here.
Consumers’ Federation of Australia (CFA) engages with this issue by supporting a representative to the Standards Australia Technical Committee MB-027 Ageing societies that contributes to the work of the international committee ISO TC 314 Ageing societies. Find out more about the CFA Standards Project and how to get involved.
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