BCH campaigns against elder abuse

ABUSE of the elderly is at the forefront of Ballarat Community Health’s new campaign, launched last month.

See the Person, Respect the Person aims to raise awareness of elder abuse and support those affected by it, and project manager Kate Diamond-Keith said the campaign is a timely one.

“To coincide with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2021 on 15 June the Ballarat Community Health project will humanise older Australians and raise awareness of elder abuse prevention services, promoting help-seeking behaviour in Ballarat and the surrounding areas,” she said.

“Elder abuse comes in many forms, financial, psychological, social, physical, sexual, neglect, and is unfortunately wide-spread in Victoria.”

The campaign will address issues surrounding ageism like inheritance impatience, entitlement, coercive behaviour, and the complexities of elder abuse in parent-child relationships by showcasing the faces and stories of seniors on billboards across the region.

“Seniors have the right to live free from violence and abuse and to make their own informed choices,” Ms Diamond-Keith said.

“Negative attitudes associated with ageing mean that later life can be seen as a time of decline, loss and vulnerability.”

“Seniors are people with colourful lives and so much to give. They should be respected and empowered to make their own informed decisions,” she said.

Support for anyone experiencing elder abuse is available by talking to a GP, nurse or retirement home staff. Calls can also be made to 1800 RESPECT and the Seniors Rights Victoria information line on 1300 368 821.