Age Concern takes action on elder abuse

Age Concern New Zealand media release 3 August 2007

“Age Concern rejects doom-mongering about the new Family Violence Intervention Guidelines on Elder Abuse and Neglect,” Age Concern New Zealand Chief Executive Ann Martin says.

“Age Concern isn’t just talking about elder abuse and neglect; we’re doing something about it, and producing guidelines for health professionals will contribute to this work.

“The task is huge: up to 50,000 older New Zealanders may be being abused – most of them by their own families.

“We agree with other seniors’ lobby organisations that attitudes to older people have to change but we don’t agree that ‘nothing will change’.

“Elder abuse and neglect wouldn’t happen if older New Zealanders were truly respected.

“That’s why the new interactive DVD training tool we released this week is called It’s All About Respect. It examines what ‘respect’ means and includes case studies that show how a lack of respect can lead to elder abuse and neglect.

The new training resource has been produced to accompany the Family Violence Intervention Guidelines on Elder Abuse and Neglect.

“The guidelines provide health professionals with six clear steps to take when working with older people. Age Concern’s Elder abuse and neglect prevention services and other service providers are ready to help them in this work.”

The Age Concern New Zealand/Ministry of Health guidelines will support health care providers with information and practical advice they can use when identifying and responding to elder abuse.

“We agree that Family Violence Intervention Guidelines alone won’t help older people – everyone in New Zealand needs to take responsibility to stop family violence,” Ann Martin says.

Please Note Age Concern North Shore has tried to ensure that all information on this website is correct. However, Age Concern North Shore does not accept liability for any statements or advice contained on, or omissions from, nor endorse any suggested site on this website. Other websites referred to on this website are here for reference only. The information on this website should not be regarded as a substitute for professional advice and we do suggest that you consult with your health, legal or financial professional.

Website last updated 13/08/2008