Aged Care Sunshine Coast

The World Health Organization’s definition of elder abuse is “a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.”

Torrents of abuse

This includes mistreatment by a spouse, partner, family member, friend, neighbour or employee, etc. — in fact anyone who takes advantage of their position of trust. It does not, however, include muggings or burglaries.

The betrayal of trust

The regular abuse of elders by their caregivers has become a burning international issue, which is now challenged throughout the world and, even though older people with forms of dementia may regularly accuse caregivers or family members of imagined theft and other abuse, all reports are investigated. Types of abuse include:

• Physical abuse
• Psychological or emotional abuse
• Financial abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect or abandonment.

Institutional and rights abuse are also recognized. But it is essential to recognize that false accusations of abuse are very common.

Edmund Burke: “The greater the power, the more dangerous the abuse.”

Of course, elder abuse will not suddenly stop on its own. Someone, or rather some organization, really needs to step in and help to put an end to ill treatment. But many people are too ashamed to report bullying or mishandling. Or they fear that if they do make a complaint the abuser will make their life even more of a misery. Urgent action is needed to protect the rights of older people.

Patricia Cornwell: “I believe the root of all evil is abuse of power”

Home Care Assistance Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay would like to change the way the world ages, to provide older adults with the genuine, quality care that will enable them to lead happier, healthier, more comfortable, independent lives in their own homes.

James Madison “Liberty may be endangered by the abuse of liberty, but also by the abuse of power.”

Please do contact Home Care Assistance Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay about any part of your care, or with general inquiries. We are here to help and advise you and to try to prevent all mistreatment, from furtive bullying to outright persecution. We know it is not imaginary and that it needs to be dealt with. This is the 21st century and we believe in trust and reliability and that no one should suffer unnecessarily. Call Home Care Assistance Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay any time for a confidential conversation.

Senior Home Assistance – Aged Care Sunshine Coast