An Elder Abuse Awareness Forum is taking place next week and will highlight the extent of the issue in our community, how people can recognise it and what they can do about it.
A panel discussion will feature special guests including the Commissioner from Senior Victorians Gerard Mansour along with Kathy Day, General Manager from Grampians Community Health.
Elder abuse is a growing problem in our community and one that is underreported.
Elder abuse comprises any form of violence or mistreatment that causes hard to any older person and occurs within a relation of trust. Elder abuse can include acts of physiological, physical, financial and sexual abuse. As well as neglect.
“Ballarat Community Health is working with organisations, community groups and the wider community to raise awareness of elder abuse and provide information on where to go for help,” Louise Feery Health Promotion Manager at BCH said.
“What we are seeing is that elder abuse is a hidden problem and we want to highlight the importance of general awareness raising and providing easily accessed knowledge about local help and support for elderly people,” Louise Feery said.
Approximately one in six older people is affected by elder abuse. By 2050 this figure is set to double.
To attend the elder abuse forum please contact Louise Feery on 5338 4518 at Ballarat Community Health.
