World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is now just over three weeks away and local prevention co-ordinator Lorraine Katterns has confirmed there are major plans in place in Wairarapa.
Mrs Katterns said that, fortunately, unlike in some other developed countries, residential care homes were not the crux of the problem inNew Zealand. However, she said psychological, emotional, verbal and financial abuse by families towards an elderly relative in the home was all too frequent.
"It's a sad fact but most elder abuse happens in the family. I've worked as a social worker for many years and I've referred cases of concern to the police.
"How frequent is it? I guess, sadly, it is frequent. It reinforces how vulnerable elderly people are and they are subjected to abuse in lots of different ways."
Mrs Katterns, who is an elder abuse and neglect prevention co-ordinator, says June 15 is a day when countries across the world promote public awareness of elder abuse and she is eager to highlight how important it is to eradicate the problem.
Each year, the Age Concern elder abuse and neglect prevention services receive more than 1000 referrals of people who are allegedly facing elder abuse and neglect, which is about four a day.
The abuse of elderly people is identified by agencies such as health providers, the police, lawyers and other community support organisations. However, Mrs Katterns said a strong community response to the problem was key.
The co-ordinator said lots of activities and events would be taking place across New Zealand and in Wairarapa.
Arrow FM will conduct an interview with Mrs Katterns, which will be played in the days prior to June 15. There will also be a display in Masterton Library, which will include information, while a surprise event is also being organised for the day.
"We have a big surprise planned," Mrs Katterns said. "It will be happening in the area around Paper Plus on Queen St at 11am and it will be moving to the foyer area of The Warehouse in Masterton at 11.45am. Mrs Katterns is hoping the events and the publicity will bring it home to people how important it is to respect and look after the elderly. people.
