Aiming to end distress that abuse of our elderly causes
Wednesday, 11 June 2008
By Nicola Brennan
GISBORNE'S elderly are being threatened and abused by their own families, with some family members using their children as a way of bribing their own parents.
Tairawhiti Age Concern spends up to 80 percent of their time dealing with elder abuse and advocating for people because of the increasing demand.
"This is the tip of the iceberg," says chief executive Frances Toroa.
Children tell their parents "If you don't give me money for the pokies, I'll make sure you never see your grandchildren again", Ms Toroa said.
"That is just one example of the psychological abuse that older people can face, often from their own families."
"The latest comment from someone who desperately needed help was 'I just needed it to stop, that's all'. It had been going on for 10 years."
Friday is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and Age Concern will host an open day at their office at 61 Lowe Street for the occasion.
"So come and share a hot drink and nibbles from 9am to 4pm.
"There will be a chance to talk with us about anything of concern around this service, get to know what we do in the community and how you can assist."
Ms Toroa said elder abuse was a problem throughout the community, not just lower socio-economic families.
This year the focus is on psychological abuse of older people, the form of abuse Age Concern encounters most often.
Elder abuse and neglect often stemmed from attitudes that were ageist and disrespectful of older people.
Anyone with concerns can call Age Concern on 867 6533 or 027 221 6895.
Abridged
SOURCE: GisborneHerald
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