Elder abuse awareness and resources

Everyone has the right to be safe and age with dignity.

Elder abuse can take many forms. Elder abuse is defined as any act that harms an older person and is carried out by someone they know and trust, such as a family member or friend. It is often hidden.

Elder abuse can happen in any family or relationship. Sometimes family, friends and carers may not know that their actions amount to elder abuse.

The abuse may be physical, social, financial, psychological or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect. Elder abuse violates an older person’s basic human right to feel safe.

No older person should experience any form of abuse, mistreatment or neglect.

Seniors Rights Victoria provides free legal advice and information, as well as education and advocacy. For free, confidential information and support, please contact Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821.

If someone is in immediate danger, call the Police on 000.

To learn more about the different types of elder abuse, visit Seniors Rights Victoria.

For more information about support for family violence, see Council’s Family Violence resources.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Every year on June 15, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is acknowledged to highlight elder abuse as one of the worst manifestations of ageism and inequality in our society.