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Elder abuse is a pervasive and often hidden issue affecting thousands of older Australians each year.
Elder abuse encompasses any act, or failure to act, that causes harm or distress to an older person within a relationship of trust or power imbalance.
This abuse can manifest in various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, and neglect.
Despite its prevalence, elder abuse remains significantly under-reported. Research indicates that six in 10 older people who experience abuse do not seek help from professional sources.
This reluctance is frequently due to feelings of shame, fear, or a desire to protect the abuser, who is often a family member.
Recent data highlights an alarming increase in elder abuse cases, with a 2021 study indicating that one in six older Australians experiences abuse in any given year.