Seniors and Elder Abuse (WA. AUSTRALIA)

Seniors and elder abuse


Older people are entitled to:

 live safely in their own homes without fear of abuse, violence or exploitation;

 make their own decisions on matters affecting their lives;

 comprehensive, accurate and accessible information and advice about their rights and options, to enable them to make informed decisions;

 be provided with assistance which is culturally and linguistically appropriate;

 autonomy and dignity.

See Safety tips for Seniors for help with:

 home security

 safer shopping

 using public transport

 using your telephone

What is elder abuse?

Any act occurring within a relationship where there is an implication of trust (family and friends), which results in harm to an older person. There are also ways other than violence that older people feel abused.

Types of abuse:

 physical (including sexual abuse)

 financial

 psychological

 neglect

The most important thing is to tell somebody

In many situations, a crime has been committed against senior members of the community who are unable to escape, report or even acknowledge their mistreatment.

Often the perpetrator is a family member.

Even though you may be reluctant, it will help your overall confidence and wellbeing if you tell someone and ask for help.

If you are a family member and think an elder member is or has been abused, do seek assistance.

Where to get help

Advocare

Advocare's Abuse Prevention Program supports older adults who are being abused or are at risk of being abused by family or friends. This program provides appropriate advocacy support, promoting the rights of older adults and working with the older adult to develop strategies, which may be used to overcome the abuse.

Advocacy support from the Advocare's Abuse Prevention Program is free, confidential and the older adult or the representative can remain anonymous.

Advocare Western Australia

Perth

1/190 Abernethy Road

Belmont WA 6104

Tel: (08) 9479 7566

Fax: (08) 9479 7599

Freecall: 1800 655 566

rights@advocare.org.au

http://www.advocare.org.au/

Geraldton

Lotteries House

180 Marine Terrace

Geraldton WA 6530

Tel: (08) 9964 4887

SOURCE:    Police WA, Australia


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