1. Elder abuse affects up to 10% of the worldwide population but most cases go unreported.
Source: NSW Seniors Rights Service
Source: Pedro Ribiero Simoes / CC BY 2.0
2. Elder Abuse means any single or repeated act, or lack of action in a relationship "where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person."
Source: World Health Organistion
Fisherman sits on deck of boat with mast and sail Source: AAP
3. Elder abuse doesn’t only mean forms of physical abuse – it also covers psychological abuse, economic abuse and neglect.
Source: The Australian Institute of Family Studies
A woman uses a walker to assist her mobility in Canberra, Friday, May 24, 2013. (AAP Image/Alan Porritt) NO ARCHIVING Source: AAP
4. In 90% of elder abuse cases, the perpetrator is a family member.
Source: Seniors Rights Victoria
Source: QLD Govt
5. Recognising elder abuse can sometimes be difficult. The abuse may be subtle or intentionally hidden and the older person may be reluctant to discuss the issue.
Source: Aged Rights Advocacy Service
Studio shot of senior man Source: AAP
6. People often use a Power of Attorney to abuse older people – taking over the management of their financial and legal affairs.
Source: NSW Seniors Rights Service
Source: CC BY-SA 3.0 NY
7. The UN supports the principles of independance, participation, care, self-fulfilment and dignity for older persons.
Source: UN Principles for Older Persons (1991)
General images of a nurse and elderly patient's hand with hospital identification band at Liverpool Hospital, Sydney on Tuesday, June 11, 2013. (AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts) NO ARCHIVING Source: AAP
8. Older people who have limited English language skills or literacy are often prone to elder abuse by their family or friends.
Source: Aged Care Manager Alex Abramhoff
Source: Australian Federal Government
9. There are no mandatory reporting laws for elder abuse in any Australian state or territory.
Source: Australian Institute of Family Studies
Source: cc_by-sa_2.0-1
10. If you or someone you know may be suffering from elder abuse, assistance is available.
Find your state's helpline at the my aged care website.
If you speak a language other than English, contact the National Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 13 14 50.
Source: Flickr / David Bleasdale
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