Elder abuse prevention
Elder abuse can take many different forms, and someone the older person trusts or depends on such as a family member, a friend or a carer is often responsible. The abuse of older people is not always physical; it can also be financial, psychological or sexual, and can include mistreatment or neglect. No cultural group or socio-economic group is immune to this abuse.
In a critical situation (e.g. where there is a serious risk to an older person’s life), it is vital to seek help from the appropriate emergency service (e.g. Police or Ambulance) by phoning 000.
National Elder Abuse Phone Line – 1800 353 374
You can call the National Elder Abuse phone line for information, support and referrals. 1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374) offers ffree and confidential information and advice about elder abuse. They may refer you to Territory Faces (the NT government helpline 1800 999 900 (Mon-Fri 8.00am-8.00pm), who can discuss which support services in the NT can offer you the best help.
Who can help in the Northern Territory
Darwin Community Legal Service
Darwin Community Legal Service (DCLS)’s Older Persons’ Abuse Information Line has been running since April 2015 – it is a free, confidential and independent service for all Territorians. The information line can provide information, education and referrals for family, friends and community members worried that someone they know is experiencing or at risk of abuse. Contact: Darwin Community Legal Service – 8982 1111 or 1800 812 953 (free call) – www.dcls.org.au (Older Persons’ Abuse Information Line – 1800 037 072)
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- The Rights of Older People
- What is Older Person Abuse?
- Signs of potential Older Person Abuse
- Cultural Considerations
- Capacity Considerations
- Six Steps to Assessing and
- Responding to Abuse of Older People
- Where to go for more information
Catholic Care NT
Catholic Care NTin Alice Springs is an Aged Care Advocate that support older people through information about aged care services, rights and responsibilities.
Contact: Catholic Care – 8958 2400 – www.catholiccarent.org.au
Relationships Australia
Relationships Australia’s Senior Relationship Services supports older people to feel respected and safe. It offers early intervention support and counselling and facilitates family meetings for seniors and their families. Contact: Relationships Australia NT – 8923 4999 – www.nt.relationships.org.au
COTA NT
COTA NT provides information on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and will refer any enquiries received by Territory seniors or their families concerned about their well-being to the best possible support services in the NT. Contact us online or phone during office hours, (08) 8941 1004 – Mondays to Friday, 9am to 3pm excluding public holidays.
