They're among the most vulnerable people in our community and they're the ones who've helped build the lives of their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Our elderly are owed a debt of gratitude and ought to be respected, cared for and listened to.
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So it was disturbing to hear elderly abuse is on the increase in the Shoalhaven when we spoke to South Coast Police District senior officers about the latest figures from the Bureau of Crime Statistics. The police wanted to highlight this often hidden and shameful crime. They are not alone in wanting to draw attention to it.
Law firm Catherine Henry Lawyers reported an increase of financial elder abuse, often committed by children facing mortgage and other debt stress and wanting to get their hands on their parents' money illegally.
Financial elderly abuse can see older people signing over the title to their home or money in exchange for promises of accommodation or care that doesn't eventuate. Sometimes solicitors are involved, misusing their powers under an enduring power of attorney.
And we've all seen cases where someone who isn't related worms their way into an old person's trust with the intention of making off with their money.
Raised by his grandparents, president of the Shoalhaven and Districts Law Society Paul Ell is outspoken when it comes to elder abuse.
"Lawyers together with the aged care sector are often at the coal face of detecting this abuse and helping the victims and their families to put a stop to it. But we can only help when we are aware of circumstances and can see the warning signs," he said in statement.
He urged people to reach out to the elderly, especially if they suspected they were being mistreated or taken advantage of.
"These conversations with potential victims and their families can be thought of as a 'wellbeing checklist' and includes asking questions about whether the person has regular contact with their family and friends, the freedom to spend their own money, medical attention when they need it and if they feel safe at home and in the company of their family and friends," he said.
As a society we ought to look after our elderly. Allowing them to be taken advantage of or abused in any reflects on us all. We wouldn't it happening to us when we're old.