iLEGAL COLUMN with Jasmine Person or iLEGAL
ABOUT ELDER ABUSE
We all know about Domestic Violence as it widely publicised and discussed. However, there is another group of vulnerable people within our community that may be victims of abuse.
Elder abuse is any act within a relationship of trust which results in harm to an older person. It can be emotional, psychological, financial, physical, sexual or quite simply neglect.
Many victims of elder abuse do not discuss their concerns with others because of feelings of shame and fear of retaliation. Others may not realise what they are experiencing is abuse, or feel that somehow it is their fault.
Some examples of elder abuse include:
frightening someone by threatening to hurt a pet or break belongings
intimidating, humiliating, or harassing a person
threatening to evict someone or put them in a nursing home
stopping a person from seeing family or friends
denying someone the right to make their own decisions
pension skimming
selling someone’s belongings without permission
misusing an Enduring Power of Attorney by taking money or property improperly
forcing a person to change their will
If you think you may be a victim or you are concerned about the welfare of a family member or friend, you can contact the Elder Abuse Helpline on 1300 651 192 for free, confidential advice.
Senior Legal and Support Services also provide FREE legal advice and social work services for people over 60.
They can assist you with:
legal information and advice
social work services
short-term counselling
advocacy on your behalf
a referral to other legal, consumer and support services
representation in court or before tribunals (in certain circumstances).
Some examples of how they can help you:
obtaining domestic violence protection orders
developing safety plans
support you to relocate to a place of safety
information on protective strategies to manage your assets and prevent or stop financial abuse
Senior Legal and Support Services can be contacted on (07) 3214 6333.