Elder Abuse: Recognising the Signs and Taking Action
Last weekend marked World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (15 June) — a time to pause, reflect, and speak up about a serious issue that affects far too many older Australians. Elder abuse is often hidden in plain sight. It can happen in any setting — at home, in the community, or in aged care — and the impacts can be devastating.
This blog doesn’t claim to have all the answers, but it offers a starting point: key facts, signs to look out for, and practical steps you can take if you're concerned about yourself or someone you love.
Because awareness really is the first step toward prevention.
Elder Abuse in Australia – The Scope of the Problem
Elder abuse is more common than many people realise. According to national research, around 1 in 6 older Australians have experienced some form of abuse — and this is likely an underestimate.
Abuse isn’t always physical. It might involve financial pressure, emotional manipulation, or neglect. In many cases, it’s not a stranger who’s causing harm — it’s someone close: a family member, friend, neighbour, or carer.
One of the biggest challenges is that most abuse goes unreported. Older people may feel ashamed, afraid of retaliation, or unsure where to turn for help — especially if they depend on the person for support.
Understanding the scope and nature of elder abuse is the first step in being able to recognise it, speak up, and offer support.
What Does Elder Abuse Look Like?
Elder abuse can take many forms — and it doesn’t always leave physical marks. Often, it’s subtle and hidden beneath the surface. Understanding the different types can help you recognise the signs early.
Here are the main forms of elder abuse:
· Financial abuse: This is one of the most reported forms. It can involve misuse of money, property or assets — such as pressuring someone to sign documents, accessing their bank account without consent, or living in their home without contributing.
· Psychological or emotional abuse: This might include intimidation, name-calling, threats, or isolating someone from friends and family. It can wear down an older person’s sense of self-worth and independence.
· Neglect: When someone responsible for care fails to provide basic needs like food, medical care, hygiene, or social contact. Neglect may be intentional or result from carer stress and burnout.
· Physical abuse: This includes hitting, pushing, restraining, or any use of force that causes harm or distress.
· Sexual abuse: Any sexual activity without consent, including unwanted touching or exposure.
These behaviours are never okay. Even if they seem small or “a one-off,” patterns of abuse often escalate over time.
Warning signs might include:
· Unexplained injuries or frequent hospital visits
· Sudden changes in financial situation
· Withdrawal from usual activities or relationships
· Hesitation to speak openly in front of certain people
· Unpaid bills, missing possessions, or unusual banking activity
If something feels off, it’s always worth checking in and seeking support.
What to Do If You Suspect Elder Abuse
If you’re concerned that an older person might be experiencing abuse — whether it’s a family member, friend, neighbour, or client — it’s important to act with care, but not to ignore it.
Here are some steps you can take:
1. Start a gentle conversation
If it feels safe, check in privately with the person. You might say something like,
“I’ve noticed a few changes — is everything okay?”
Give them space to talk without pressure. They may not open up immediately, but knowing someone is there can make all the difference.
2. Contact a support service for advice
You don’t need to have all the answers. Services like the Elder Abuse Helpline in your state or territory can provide confidential advice on what to do next. They can talk through your concerns, help assess the situation, and guide you on the best course of action.
3. Know that you can make a report — even anonymously
In cases where someone is at risk of harm, a formal report can be made to authorities. In an emergency, always call 000. Otherwise, state-based elder abuse services or the police can help intervene safely.
4. Support the older person’s choices
Where possible, respect the older person’s wishes — unless they are in immediate danger. Often, they may be reluctant to take action due to fear, shame, or dependence on the abuser.
It’s okay to feel unsure. What matters is that you’ve noticed something isn’t right and want to help.
For expert information and multilingual support resources, visit:
👉 Elder Abuse Action Australia — This site offers trusted national information and translation tools for diverse communities.
Preventing Elder Abuse
Preventing elder abuse isn’t only about responding when it happens — it’s also about creating a culture of respect, connection, and safety for older Australians.
Here are a few ways individuals, families, and communities can help prevent elder abuse:
1. Stay socially connected
Isolation is one of the biggest risk factors for elder abuse. Regular phone calls, visits, or community involvement can help older people feel seen, supported, and empowered to speak up if something isn’t right.
2. Encourage open conversations
Talk openly about finances, healthcare, and aged care wishes before problems arise. Help older people put legal protections in place — like enduring powers of attorney — while they are still able to make clear decisions.
3. Educate yourself and others
The more we know about what elder abuse looks like, the more we can do to stop it. Awareness campaigns, community workshops, and online resources (like eaaa.org.au) are all valuable tools.
4. Look out for those at risk
If someone you know has become increasingly withdrawn, anxious, or dependent on another person, check in with compassion. Sometimes, all it takes is one person noticing something’s not right to begin the path to support.
5. Respect older people’s rights and choices
At every stage, the rights of older people to make decisions about their lives should be supported. Even when they need help, they are still the experts in their own lives.
Where to Get Help and More Information
If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse — or if you’re unsure but something doesn’t feel right — support is available. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
Where to start:
· Elder Abuse Helpline
Each state and territory in Australia has a free and confidential elder abuse helpline where you can speak to someone and get advice. You don’t need to have proof — even a gut feeling is worth following up.
· National Elder Abuse phone line
1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374)
This free call service will direct you to the appropriate support in your area.
· Elder Abuse Action Australia (EAAA)
A national advocacy organisation working to eliminate elder abuse. The EAAA website offers extensive resources, education, and links to support services — with the added benefit of translation features, so older Australians and their families can access information in their preferred language.
· Legal Aid and Advocacy Services
If the situation involves financial or legal issues, legal aid organisations can provide advice, assistance, and referrals.
· Your GP or a trusted health professional
Doctors, nurses, and other health professionals can help assess situations of concern and connect you with the right supports.
Elder abuse is complex and can be difficult to talk about — but support, safety, and dignity should always be possible. Knowing where to turn is the first step.
Looking Out for One Another
Elder abuse is more common than many of us realise, and it can happen in any community, to any older person. While this blog only scratches the surface, it’s a starting point to raise awareness and encourage action.
If you’re worried about someone you love, trust your instincts and reach out. Support is available — confidential, respectful, and tailored to the needs of older Australians.
By learning the signs and knowing where to turn for help, we can all play a part in protecting the safety, rights, and dignity of older people in our families and communities.
