World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was observed on Saturday, June 15, with authorities urging the community to stand in solidarity against the abuse, mistreatment, and neglect of older people.
In Wyndham, project homes developed during the ‘Warm Safe Home Project’ were put on display at Point Cook Community and Learning Centre, Manor Lakes Community and Learning Centre
and Tarneit Community and Learning Centre.
The ‘Warm Safe Home Project’ project used the icon of the house to talk about older people’s right to feel safe and live free.
Speaking ahead of WEAAD, Wyndham councillor Adele Hegedich said about 160,000 older Victorians experience elder abuse each year.
“At Wyndham City we are committed to raising awareness of elder abuse and ensuring they live their lives with the dignity and respect they deserve,” Cr Hegedich said.
“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a poignant reminder of the challenges many face and the steps we can take to address them.”
Police used the day to urge Victorians, including those in Wyndham, that know or suspect an older person is being abused to come forward to police to help combat the crime.
Crime Statistics Agency figures show the number of elder abuse victims over the age of 65 has increased by 35 per cent in the last five years.
Last year alone there were 5944 reports of elder abuse. Two thirds of victims are women and a third male.
Elder abuse can involve physical , financial, emotional, psychological and social abuse, as well as neglect.
Family Violence Command Acting Superintendent Tom Nairn said police see the devastating impact of elder abuse every day – with the crime often carried out at the hands of a family member, friend or even a paid carer.
“If third parties are prepared to speak up and report to police, any information provided is vital in assisting the safety of the older person or their assets,” he said.
“The majority of perpetrators are other family members who need to be held to account for these crimes – so by telling us, we can do something about it and keep victims safe.”
People who know or suspect an older person is being abused, are urged to contact police, either by calling triple-0 if an emergency, or if non-urgent, by calling Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime/
