ADDRESSING ELDER ABUSE IN REGIONAL AND URBAN AUSTRALIA: A CALL TO ACTION

Elder abuse remains a pressing issue across both regional and urban Australia, affecting countless older individuals within our communities. Defined as any act causing harm to an older person by someone they know and trust, often a family member, elder abuse manifests in various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, and social isolation. Despite efforts to address this issue, it continues to persist, highlighting the need for increased awareness and action. "It's a big problem, just like all family violence," said community advocate Uncle Charlie King. The topic will be a central focus at an upcoming yarning circle, where strategies for identifying and addressing elder abuse within families will be discussed.

At the heart of this discussion is the cultural distinction between the terms "senior" and "elder." In many cultures, a senior is defined by age, while in First Nations communities, an elder is someone recognized for their wisdom. "We've been talking to Elders about how we can make more of the seniors become Elders to have that wisdom and knowledge," shared Uncle Charlie. This wisdom is crucial in identifying signs of abuse, such as malnutrition, poor hygiene, untreated medical issues, and unexplained injuries. The yarning circle aims to equip families with the tools to recognize these signs and develop strategies to prevent and address elder abuse.

Community resources play a vital role in supporting victims of elder abuse. However, accessing the right help can be challenging, especially in remote areas. "If anyone feels unsafe or is in a life-threatening situation, they should call the police," emphasized the advocate, who also highlighted the importance of knowing local resources. In one Western Australian community, a witness recounted seeing a young person exploit their elderly relative at a post office, a stark reminder of the financial abuse that can occur unnoticed. "We can't rely on elders to report abuse because they often feel shame, guilt, or fear of retaliation," Uncle Charlie noted, underscoring the need for bystanders to take action.

Preventing elder abuse requires a collective effort, especially from family members and neighbours who may be the first to notice signs of mistreatment. While intervening can be daunting, it is crucial to address these issues head-on. "We don't want to be innocent bystanders," Uncle Charlie urged, suggesting that community spaces, like post offices, should display numbers for reporting elder abuse. Additionally, a gentle approach, such as distracting the abuser, can sometimes de-escalate situations. "Not everything is foolproof, but we have to try," he added. The message is clear: protecting our elders is a responsibility we all share, and it's time to take a stand.

To listen to the interviews click on the links below