New professional Elder Abuse education program launches

A three-hour module - “Recognising and Responding to Elder Abuse” - can be delivered in-person throughout Victoria, or online, and can also be tailored for an organisation’s specific needs.

Seniors Rights Victoria seeks to initially engage with home care providers including managers, team leaders, and staff before the module is rolled out to other sectors and industries.

“Elder abuse impacts one in six older Australians,” said CEO Chris Potaris. “We’re thrilled to be introducing this much-needed, revised education program to support professionals working with older Victorians.”

“We’ve had countless requests for professional education about recognising and responding to elder abuse within the last year alone,” added President Robert Caulfield. “We’re very pleased to be able to offer these revitalised sessions.”

Seniors Rights Victoria has been delivering professional education across Victoria for nearly ten years. This revised module will improve the capacity of professionals to identify and respond to elder abuse and includes a mix of case study discussion, well-researched content, and time to apply learnings.

Upon completion of a session, participants will be empowered to:

• define the relationship between ageing, ageism, and elder abuse

• identify the different types of elder abuse and indicators

• integrate ways to work with an older person

• identify who is at risk or being subjected to elder abuse

• respond individually and organisationally to incidences of elder abuse

• work with diverse populations

• be able to seek external support and assistance

A comprehensive manual will be provided to supplement the module. Those attending will be invited to participate in activities to deepen their understanding of the topic.

Expressions of interest for professional education sessions can now be made on the Seniors Rights Victoria website.

If you would like to discuss professional education needs for your organisation, or have any questions regarding the new program, please contact Education Coordinator Gary Ferguson on +61 3 9655 2112 or via email at gferguson@seniorsrights.org.au.