Elder Abuse Awareness Day is marked today, and Age Concern Central Otago is raising awareness of elder abuse and encouraging people to speak up. 

Age Concern Central Otago elder abuse response worker Toni Velenski said in the three years she had held her role the instances of elder abuse were increasing.

“There are [around] 26 elder abuse cases a year, that met the criteria…It [covers] financial, psychological and then in decreasing [numbers] physical and even a sexual [abuse] case.

Toni said her role is extremely varied.

“I take a holistic approach. I can work with the informant to figure out the best way to approach the situation.” 

Across New Zealand Age Concern sees an average of 10 new cases each working day and 68 percent of these are substantiated. But there were many unreported cases and in many instances elderly people did not know that they were victims of elder abuse, Toni said.

She gave the examples of a daughter borrowing money for a loan and not repaying it, or adult children saying ‘it’s our inheritance’ and taking an elderly person’s money.

“There is a respect aspect… treating them with respect and [letting] them make their own decisions.

“They’re entitled to make mistakes or blow their money,” she said.

Along with not knowing that they’re a victim, elderly people may be fearful they won’t be believed, or they may have nowhere else to go if they live with their abuser.

“There is a huge waiting list for social housing in Central Otago… And you just can't get private rentals,” Toni said. 

“Those with mental health [challenges], alcohol problems or disabilities are not going to report it… the odds are stacked against them.”

Toni tailors her approach, so may give support via anonymous phone calls, talk to other family members, put clients in touch with other support agencies, or build up the confidence of elderly people in the community.

Age Concern’s campaign message this year is: “Trust your gut and get in touch with us." 

The impact of elder abuse is significant for older people, but also avoidable if they get help and intervention services early.

If you suspect an older person is not being treated well or want to report abuse, call the elder abuse helpline 0800 EA IS NOT OK or freephone Age Concern 0800 65 2 105 for free and confidential support.

You can donate to Age Concern this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day here. givealittle.co.nz/cause/stopelderabuse.