Elder Abuse More Financial Than Physical (New Zealand)

Elder abuse more financial than physical
The Timaru Herald
Tuesday, 01 July 2008

South Canterbury elderly are more likely to be financially harmed than physically abused by their family says the region's elder protection co-ordinator.

Geeta Muralidharan said elder abuse had always happened in communities but it had recently become more apparent with the rising elderly population.

It was back in the spotlight after a tradesman alerted authorities when he saw an elderly woman gagged at her Auckland rest home on Friday.

The most common form of elder abuse Mrs Muralidharan saw in South Canterbury was financial and emotional abuse. It can be a son or daughter telling their elderly parents they will not let them see their grandchildren if they do not sell their house, or using their money without their parent's knowledge.

Mrs Muralidharan said emotional and financial abuse often stemmed from money troubles and a lack of respect for the elderly. Last month a Timaru woman was found guilty of theft from her elderly mother.

Neglecting the elderly is another growing problem with the risk that people in rural areas can fall off the radar of community groups. Mrs Muralidharan hoped monthly forums around the region would help address this issue in small communities.

"There's no easy answer."

Age Concern chief executive Ann Martin said at least two older people are abused or neglected every day in New Zealand, the majority by their own family members. The abuse can be physical, psychological, financial, or sexual.

She said asking for help at any time can be especially traumatic in elder abuse and neglect situations.

"Older people may fear retribution or be unable to tell anyone that abuse or neglect is occurring, and families and caregivers can be reluctant or fearful, or just not aware that their actions are abusive."

She said people need to speak up because ending elder abuse is the community's responsibility.


She believed the tradesman who first identified the gagging of a resident of an Auckland rest home should be commended for taking action.

"Older people have the right to be treated with respect."

SOURCE: StuffNZ
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