Jul 26, 2023

New policy to address elder abuse in SA

Shutterstock_2053899836
Sadly, a national prevalence study showed more than 60% of older people didn't seek help or advice when they were experiencing abuse or mistreatment. [Source: Shutterstock]

The South Australian Government has released a new Statewide policy agenda to prevent, recognise, and respond to the abuse and mistreatment of older people.

Future Directions to Safeguard the Rights of Older South Australians 2023-2027 sets out the direction, strategic priorities, and conditions to address the abuse and mistreatment of older people in South Australia over the next five years. 

It focuses on tackling ageism as a fundamental element of safeguarding the rights of older people as ageism can impede living and ageing well, negatively affect the provision of services, supports and care, prevent older people from participating in the workforce, and lead to abuse or mistreatment.

Executive Director of Office for Ageing Well, Cassie Mason, explained that it is vital to uphold older people’s rights by demonstrating through words and actions that there is no expiry date on making a meaningful contribution to our community and society.

Untitled design (32)
Cassie Mason. [Source: Twitter]

“Future Directions aims to raise awareness and identify opportunities to prevent, recognise, and respond to the abuse or mistreatment of older people, setting out a clear approach to safeguard the rights of older South Australians by providing suggested actions and partnerships.”

Future Directions outlines the State’s journey to preventing elder abuse to date, projects and achievements, suggested actions as well as the process of development. 

It has been shaped by extensive consultation with older people as well as a wide range of stakeholders, advisory groups and networks.

It also found older women were most likely to be impacted, with the most common perpetrators being adult sons.

In the same vein, South Australia’s Elder Abuse Prevention community awareness campaign is currently underway, encouraging South Australians to reconsider how they think and speak about ageing and older people.

Anyone who suspects abuse or mistreatment of an adult who may be vulnerable can seek free confidential advice and support or make a report to the Adult Safeguarding Unit on 1800 372 310.

For more information, visit the SA Health website.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

“The Baby Boomers are coming”: how the Government plans to figure out aged care

Aged Care Minister Anika Wells has announced a new Aged Care Taskforce to help establish the best care model in a new equitable and sustainable Aged Care Act. Read More

Routine police traffic stop saves elderly man from losing ‘thousands’ to phone scammers

An 84-year-old man had been looking for a bank to deposit his money when he was pulled over by police for an illegal turn and then saved from depositing money in a scammer's bank account. Read More

#OlderWomenCount campaign demands we must respect older women more

This International Women’s Day, artists and older people advocacy groups have banded together to start the #OlderWomenCount social media campaign, aimed to change culture, combat inequalities and promote respect for older women.  Read More
Advertisement