Age Concern New Zealand releases report on elder abuse & neglect prevention service

“Older people are being abused by their sons and daughters” says Betty Jeanne Eydt spokesperson for Age Concern New Zealand.

Key findings in Age Concern New Zealand’s analysis of cases of elder abuse and neglect, just released, show that the majority of abusers (70%) are family/whānau members, most commonly sons or daughters (40%) irrespective of the client’s living situation. Older abusers (those aged 65+ years of age) were more likely to be husbands.

Family violence continues to occur even for older people living in residential care. 66 percent of abuse or neglect experienced by older people in residential care was attributed to family/whānau members.

Most frequently the older person experiences psychological abuse. For example, verbal abuse used to intimidate, humiliate, harass or control choices. This may have wide ranging and long term effects on physical and mental health. The second most common form of abuse experienced is material/financial abuse, the illegal or improper exploitation and/or use of funds or other resources. For example, using a parent’s EFTPOS card to take funds, or parents ‘loaning money’ to children who then refuse to pay it back. “Its also about need, greed and opportunism” says Betty Jeanne Eydt. Forty-two cases were identified as involving misuse of Enduring Power of Attorney.

The data presented in the Age Concern NZ report is based on referrals to Age Concern Elder Abuse and Neglect Services and provides information on reported cases only. International research suggests that these cases are likely to be just the tip of the iceberg.

Age Concern calls for the whole community to act to challenge ageist attitudes which are used to justify abusive behaviour. ”Not respecting older peoples right to care, dignity, independence, participation and self-fulfilment is abuse”, says Ms Eydt. “We have a unique opportunity in Aotearoa/New Zealand to move forward together to make a difference, to challenge ageist attitudes, to create an environment where older people feel safe and valued and where those working with older people are valued.”

To view the report, click on the link below. For further information about the report contact Age Concern NZ on (04) 801 9338.

Age Concern New Zealand Age Concern New Zealand report on elder abuse & neglect prevention service