A new pocket-sized brochure has been launched to assist the aged care workforce in identifying elder abuse.
The free brochure has been developed by aged care peak body Aged and Community Services Australia and Older Persons Advocacy Network.
The user-friendly resource aims to provide critical information about how to recognise elder abuse in aged care facilities.
It was launched last week on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which is held annually on 15 June.
The brochure has been designed to be pocket-sized, so staff are always able to have the guide on hand.
ACSA CEO Patricia Sparrow said elder abuse is a broad social issue.
“Elder abuse is too widespread, it happens in every social, economic and cultural setting. At the very core of elder abuse is the loss of dignity and basic human rights and it is a scourge on society,” Ms Sparrow said.
“We are determined to fight elder abuse each and every day wherever it occurs. The first step is making sure that everyone involved in aged care knows what elder abuse is and what to do if they witness it,” she said.
OPAN CEO Craig Gear said elder abuse is not only a public health concern, but also a human rights issue.
“There are many different types of elder abuse that aged care workers have to identify,” Mr Gear said.
He said the aged care workforce needs the right resources to help identify elder abuse when it occurs.
“Aged care workers need practical tools to assist them to identify abuse and understand how to respond appropriately. The first step in addressing elder abuse is talking about it. We hope this resource is a catalyst for conversations about how to recognise signs of abuse in aged care,” he said.
“We need to make sure that we are listening to those at risk of experiencing elder abuse,” Mr Gear said.
If you have concerns about an older person is experiencing or at risk of elder abuse, contact 1800 ELDER HELP (1800 353 374) for advice.
To get a free copy of the resource, contact ACSA at enquiries@acsa.asn.au
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