Worried About Elder Abuse? (New Zealand)

East And Bays Courier

17/02/2010

People concerned about elderly friends or relatives being abused or neglected are being encouraged to act.

Statistics from Age Concern show that more than 70 percent of elder abuse and neglect cases are committed by family members.

Home Instead Senior Care, which has an office in Meadowbank, says that for many the thought of intentionally taking advantage of an aged relation, especially a parent who has cared for them as a child, is difficult to imagine.

The reality, however, is that elder abuse and neglect are still very much present in New Zealand.

More than 961 seniors reported abuse via Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention Services in the year up to September 2009.

The overall issue is one that Home Instead Senior Care, a provider of non-medical home help and services for older people, is keen to highlight.

General manager Neil Farnworth says increasing awareness of elder abuse is an important tool to support the elderly.

Mr Farnworth says that while the statistics are worrying enough the greater concern is cases of abuse and neglect that go unreported.

He says elder abuse and neglect could be physical, psychological and emotional, sexual, financial and material, or neglect.

Abuse is more commonly inflicted upon women – of those being abused or neglected up to 70 percent are women.

Home Instead Senior Care has produced a short presentation to share with community groups that can be used in conjunction with copies of the Social Development Ministry’s booklet Take The Time – Value Older People.

It is hoped that the presentation and handout will raise awareness within the community.

Anyone concerned about an elderly relative or neighbour’s safety should contact their nearest Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention Service operated by Age Concern or call the police directly if the situation is an emergency.

Home Instead Senior Care team members are available to speak to community groups about elder abuse and neglect.

For more information call the Meadowbank office on 528-4476 or go to www.homeinstead.co.nz

SOURCE:    Stuff.Co.NZ
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