Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
Being alert to elder abuse in our communities is always important.
Research shows family violence often increases during major crises and disruptions, which means some older Queenslanders may be at increased risk of abuse at this time during the COVID pandemic.
Social and physical isolation, or shared living spaces with a person who may behave abusively, could heighten the risks.
Elder abuse is a single or repeated act — of lack of appropriate action — occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.
Did you know that most cases of elder abuse occur within family relationships?
Elder abuse can be perpetrated in various forms — physical, emotional/psychological, financial, sexual abuse, or neglect.
Now is a time when we need to look out for each other, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
If you suspect that an older person you