Your Care

Elder abuse prevention

Elder abuse and neglect receives less attention than child abuse. However, older people can be abused physically, emotionally, sexually and financially. Abuse or neglect is more likely to occur when an older person is dependent on others for assistance or care. The focus now is the prevention of elder abuse and neglect through personal safety and security.

The person involved is usually in a position of trust and known to the older person. All people have rights and these do not diminish as a person grows older. Older people are entitled to be treated as individuals with a right to privacy, protection, companionship, self-fulfilment, safety, warmth and care, just as much as anybody else.

If you are concerned about your own situation, or that of someone you know, please do not be afraid to ask for help. Talk to someone you trust, a friend, your doctor, nurse, minister, or call your local community service or the Police.

State or Territory	Service	Number
Australian Capital Territory	ELDER ABUSE PREVENTION INFORMATION LINE	02 6205 3535
New South Wales	SENIORS INFORMATION SERVICE	13 12 44
Northern Territory	NT HEALTH SERVICES	08 8999 2809 (Darwin General Enquiries)
Queensland	ELDER ABUSE PREVENTION UNIT	1300 651 192 (local) 07 3250 1955 (Interstate calls)
South Australia	AGED RIGHTS ADVOCACY SERVICE	08 8232 5377 (Adelaide) or 1800 700 600 (Rural)
Tasmania	DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES	03 6233 8514 (Hobart)
Victoria	SENIORS RIGHTS VICTORIA	1300 368 821
Western Australia	ADVOCARE Inc	08 9479 7566 (Perth) or 1800 655 566 (Rural)