The Queensland Public Trustee has warned seniors are at greater risk of elder abuse because of the Covid – 19 pandemic.
” We are seeing increased isolation and a reduced line of sight on members of the community who are at greater risk of elder abuse,” Mr Samay Zhouand said.
“It’s sad reality, but the majority of cases of financial elder abuse involve direct family members, trusted friends, caregivers, or their attorneys, when someone loses capacity. Often the perpetrator operates under the guise of caring for and protecting the affected person and we have seen cases where even family members take financial control of their parents due to financial downturn, mental illness, substance abuse or high stress situations,” he said
He said some Queensland regions are displaying some concerning data as identified by the Elder Abuse Hotline.
Logan call data indicates there is a need for increased community awareness of support services available to help the people over 50 to recognise and act on financial elder abuse.
He said like any type of elder abuse, financial abuse can be devastating to the victims, but it is often harder to recognise due to the nature of the relationships older Queenslanders may have with the perpetrators.
Attorney-General, Shannon Fentiman, said elder abuse is a matter Queenslanders should be aware of and one that is taken seriously.
“The Queensland Guardianship system is vital in protecting Queenslanders, including the older members of our community,” Minister Fentiman said.
The work of the Queensland Guardianship system has led to the arrest of the perpetrators of financial elder abuse as well as recovery of millions of dollars defrauded funds.
“Without this system, many cases of elder abuse would go unnoticed or unreported with severe consequences to some of our most vulnerable,” added Minister Fentiman.
UnitingCare, who lead the state’s Elder Abuse Prevention Unit, says speaking out against elder abuse is a critical first step in addressing the problem in Queensland.
“The Elder Abuse Helpline is designed to support anyone who experiences, witnesses or suspects abuse of an older person by someone they know and trust,” said Luke Lindsay, General Manager – Family and Disability Services.
“If you are an older person experiencing abuse, or an advocate of an older person you are concerned may be the victim of abuse, our message to you is please speak up and reach out.”
The Public Trustee strongly encourages people to reach out to the Elder Abuse hotline on 1300 651 192 to report their suspicions of any form of elder abuse.
“Having your affairs in order can help to protect Queenslanders against financial abuse,” Mr Zhouand said.
“Enduring powers of attorney and nominated person arrangements play a vital role in protecting yourself and your future.”
For further information or personal legal advice, contact an estate and life planning solicitor. To find an accredited specialist, visit: www.qls.com.au/For_the_community/Find_a_solicitor or reach out to the Public Trustee on 1300 360 044.
If you see signs of elder abuse, please contact the Elder Abuse Helpline: 1300 651 192.
For more information visit www.pt.qld.gov.au
Breakout box:
- Financial elder abuse is the most common form of abuse according to the 2018 Elder Abuse report issued by the Australian Institute of Family Studies
- Australia has an ageing population and predictions suggest people over the age of 65 years will make up almost 25 percent of the population by 2050.
- According to Queensland Elder abuse call data, women are overrepresented as victims of abuse.
- The responses and prevention measures of elder abuse internationally are considerably less developed than other areas of interpersonal abuse (DFV and child abuse)
- Social Isolation is a significant risk -factor regarding elder abuse.
- The Australian Human Rights Commission launched the “Elder Abuse, Know the Signs” elder abuse awareness campaign in October 2020, after concerns the cases of elder abuse would rise due to COVID-19.
- Currently, there are no formal reporting mechanisms for suspected elder abuse in the community.
