World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) will be held this weekend in an effort to continue to tackle ageism in our community.
Wyndham will join communities across the world in observing the day on Saturday, June 15 and
stand in solidarity against the abuse, mistreatment, and neglect of older people.
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.”
Nationally, the most recent study found 14.8 per cent of those 65 years and over had
experienced at least one recognised form of elder abuse over the previous 12
months.
Elder abuse transcends all social, economic, and demographic barriers, and can
manifest in many forms including financial, emotional, psychological, physical,
sexual, or social.
In an attempt to combat the problem, Wyndham council this year joined with some local residents to complete the ‘Warm Safe Home Project” which uses the icon of the house to talk about older people’s right to feel safe and live free
from fear.
In situations of elder abuse, the home can become a place of danger.
These project homes will be available on display until Sunday June 16 at the
Point Cook Community and Learning Centre, Manor Lakes Community and Learning Centre
and Tarneit Community and Learning Centre.
“Let’s stand united this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day to
send a clear message that abuse towards our older citizens will not be tolerated,” said Cr Hegedich.
For more information on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day visit
