12 June 2009
Press Release: Age Concern
Age Concern New Zealand Media statement 11 June 2009
Respect the key to combating elder abuse says Age Concern
Abuse and neglect of older people will be highlighted on Monday with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
Respect each other – Let’s all say no to elder abuse and neglect is Age Concern New Zealand's message for combating elder abuse.
On 15 June, Age Concerns around the country will alert their communities to the devastating impact on older people.
Every day at least two more cases of abuse or neglect of older people are uncovered by Age Concern Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention Services, and they know that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Age Concern New Zealand's professional adviser Jayne McKendry says widespread ageism and disrespect of older people lets elder abuse flourish.
"Some people think that because someone is old, they don't matter. They take their money, isolate them, make decisions without even asking, and pressure them into things they don’t want to do like giving a 'loan', or letting family move in for free.”
“This is elder abuse and these people are abusers. They show no respect for the older person, for their quality of life, and for their needs – they even can take away their will to live.”
Seventy to 80 percent of elder abuse and neglect in New Zealand occurs at the hands of family members.
Preventing elder abuse is part of the well-known It's Not OK campaign as it's another form of family violence. This year, a new It's Not OK campaign resource on elder abuse and neglect "Take the Time – Value Older People" will be available through elder abuse and neglect prevention services or it can be ordered from www.areyouok.org.nz.
Age Concern New Zealand is also launching a new handbook for people who work with older people offering them information on elder abuse and respect.
As well as working with older people, their whanau and in-home carers, Age Concern provides education and training for staff working with older people, such as residential care workers, and runs public awareness sessions for community groups.
"World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an opportunity for us all to say no to elder abuse and neglect. It's time to see what's happening and to change the culture of disrespect and destruction of older people," Jayne McKendry says.
"If you're an older person facing abuse or someone who suspects it's happening, do something about it – call Age Concern or talk to someone you can trust."
Visit www.ageconcern.org.nz for information on Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention.
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