June 5th, 2023Sessions set to help combat elder abuse

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is hosting two information seminars for health professionals on the topic of elder abuse this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day – Thursday June 15.

The council says it’s inviting health professionals to information sessions which will focus on supports available locally for older people and how to access them.

Sessions are set for 10am at Macedon Ranges Health in Gisborne and for 2pm at Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health in Kyneton.

Research by Senior Rights Victoria suggests that up to 14 per cent of older people may experience physical, emotional, financial, social or sexual abuse, and that social isolation can increase the risk.

But there are practical steps that those subjected to elder abuse can take to safeguard their rights and assets.

These include contacting Seniors Rights Victoria’s Helpline on 1300 368 821, while people who are worried about someone else, may find Seniors Rights Victoria’s ‘Concerned about an older person?’ helpful.

Seniors Rights Victoria provides information, support, advice and education to help prevent elder abuse and safeguard the rights, dignity and independence of older people.