By Catherine Toffolon
10 June 2008
ELDER abuse is a hidden but very real problem in Maroondah, a Ringwood lawyer says.
Hutchinson Legal solicitor Martin Reilly said abuse against elderly people was common and often occurred within the family.
"Many elderly clients come to our office who have been verbally threatened or even physically abused; most are concerned about the security of their financial assets but don't know what to do," Mr Reilly said.
"They are often compromised in bringing some form of legal action against their loved ones.
"More than ever before, we need to empower and protect the interests and assets of vulnerable older persons."
Mr Reilly said "harm" as defined under state government laws against elder abuse was broadly applied to physical, mental, financial, social or spiritual exploitation of the elderly.
He said Hutchinson Legal and the Maroondah Combined Pensioners and Superannuates Association had joined forces to jointly provide a free seminar, Elder Abuse: Protecting Your Financial Interest, to educate and empower elderly people.
Association spokesman Stan Smith said elder abuse was "very prevalent and more people needed to be aware of it".
The seminar will be held at the Ringwood Room, Ringwood Library, Eastland, at 2pm, Thursday, June 26.
Details: 9870 7585.
SOURCE: MaroondahLeader
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