Elder abuse is a form of family or domestic violence that is experienced by older people. Like family violence, elder abuse is about one person having power and control over another person.
It is defined as 'any action, or deliberate inaction, by a person in a position of trust which causes harm to an older person'. (WHO, 2002).
Although family violence and elder abuse both cause harm to elders, family violence and aged care workers have often provided different support pathways.


SOME USEFUL QUESTIONS TO ASK
IF YOU SUSPECT AN OLDER PERSON IS BEING ABUSED

  • Are you afraid of [so-and-so] or anyone else at home?
  • Has anyone threatened to put you in a nursing home?
  • Are you being mistreated?
  • Do you feel safe within your relationship?
  • You mentioned that [so-and-so] loses their temper. Can you tell me more about that?
  • Do you feel safe in your home?
  • You seem to be concerned about [so-and-so].  Does their behaviour ever frighten you?
  • I see a lot of people with injuries like yours. Sometimes they’re a result of a family argument. Has this ever happened to you?
  • I’ve come across several people who are victims of abuse and so now I make it a habit to ask people if they are abused or know anyone who has been abused. Do you know anyone who is abused? 


HOW TO RESPOND
IF AN OLDER PERSON DISCLOSES ABUSE

  • Respond with kindness and maintain an attitude that does not threaten, blame, or make judgements about the person, the abuser, or the choices they have made. This may only make the person defensive, or cause them to defend the abuser
  • Believe the person and be willing to listen
  • Let the person know that they can count on you to be supportive
  • Provide choices, not interventions — empower the person to take control of their life. Do not tell them what to do or pressure them to leave the perpetrator. They knows the dynamics of the situation and must make the decision themselves
  • Let the person know (even if they deny abuse has happened) that it’s not their fault, they are not alone (abuse can happen to anyone), and that there is help available