No excuse for elder abuse

On Tuesday 15 June, the City of Whittlesea will mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), which highlights the importance of the rights of older people.

Elder abuse is any act which causes harm to an older person and is carried out by someone they know and trust such as a family member or friend. The abuse may be physical, social, financial, psychological or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect.

It is a growing global social issue which affects the health, wellbeing, independence and human rights of millions of older people around the world.

WEAAD was officially recognised by the United Nations in 2011, and is commemorated annually on June 15.

The City of Whittlesea’s Positive Ageing team will host a free online seminar with Seniors Rights Victoria (SRV) on Wednesday 16 June, which will address ways to prevent elder abuse.

For more information on the seminar, contact the Positive Ageing team on 9407 5913 or email LEAP@whittlesea.vic.gov.au.