Today marks International Day of Older Persons, an opportunity to celebrate the resilience and wisdom of older Australians, and the importance of respecting their ongoing contribution to Australian society.
Relationships Australia NSW CEO Elisabeth Shaw said the life experience and skills of older Australians are a welcome and valued resource for younger generations.
“Older people play an immeasurable role in society which should be celebrated,” Ms Shaw said.
“We often assume retirement is a time of rest. Yet we see older people working for longer, volunteering, travelling, caring for grandchildren, and starting new hobbies and relationships. Their contribution enriches our families and communities, and when we underestimate or overlook older Australians, it is to the detriment of us all.
“Today is also an opportunity to raise awareness of some of the serious issues impacting older people, which we can also overlook.
“Research indicates that around 15 per cent of older people in Australia aged 65 and over are victims of abuse. This could include physical violence, psychological or financial abuse.
“Unlike other social ills, this problem doesn’t discriminate by postcode or ethnicity.”
Earlier this year, Relationships Australia NSW released its landmark Policy Paper Ending the Abuse of Older People in NSW. Developed in consultation with government, legal, health and community stakeholders, the Paper sets out a clear agenda to 2030. It calls for stronger services, targeted law reform, investment in the workforce, and a coordinated National Plan to end elder abuse within a generation.
“With demographic trends such as rising dementia rates, increasing intergenerational living, and service shortages in regional areas, the risk of abuse will only grow without sustained investment,” Ms Shaw said.
“Through our Let’s Talk program and other frontline services, we support older people and their families with mediation, counselling and practical assistance to prevent abuse from escalating. But the scale of this issue requires more than the dedicated efforts of frontline services – it demands systemic action.
“There are no simple solutions, but there are policies and associated services that can be implemented to help alleviate this awful ailment. Early intervention is key.
“Vulnerability shouldn’t be exploited and we have a shared responsibility to protect and care for our ageing loved ones. They deserve to be treated with respect.”
