Elder Abuse
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Elder Abuse

What we know

Elder abuse is an act which harms an older person and is carried out by someone they trust.  All health professionals, aged care staff and service providers have responsibilities with regard to elder abuse. We do not know if there are elder abuse problems at the end of life.

What can I do?

Make sure the person knows about the role of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. Phone: 1800 951 822 

My Aged Care has links to organisations in each state or territory that can help with concerns. Make sure the person knows the right phone number.

 

What can I learn?

The Department of Health and Human Services has a free online module on Elder Abuse.

Become familiar with the Charter of Care Recipients' Rights and Responsibilities - Home Care and the Charter of Care Recipients' Rights and Responsibilities - Residential Care. Published in 19 languages, these documents outline the rights and responsibilities of care recipients including national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care services.
 

 

What can my organisation do?

Ensure that staff, clients or residents are aware of the contact details of organisatons that can help.

Offer training, for staff need to be aware of their responsibilities in recognising, preventing and redressing harm and neglect.

Make sure that staff and clients are aware of the organisation complaints mechanism in place and that it is available on request.


World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is noted on 15 June every year. You can participate in this event and share resources that are made available for the day.

Staff who have the capacity to lead and implement change in systems and processes could be encouraged and supported to attend a workshop 'Making the most of complaints in aged care' (home care and residential care) run by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.
 

Page updated 22 May 2017