Elder abuse case numbers not a true reflection, says worker

HOME TRUTH: While it is beneficial for older people to stay in their own house longer, it makes them more vulnerable to abuse.A-290803JB05BOP

World elder abuse awareness is being recognised on Monday - but for Sue Evans it is something she deals with every day.

In the past year the senior social worker at Age Concern Wanganui has handled more than 160 cases of elder abuse, a number she said was "steady".

She is the sole elder abuse and neglect prevention coordinator for the organisation in the city and her diary is constantly full of clients she is working with.

"In the 12 months to June this year I've dealt with 84 cases and found solutions to those and I'd have about the same number again that are currently active," she said.

But she said these numbers were not a true reflection of what could be going on because not all abuse is reported.

"Wanganui's got a higher demographic of older people and we've also got more vulnerable people because they're staying in their own homes longer.

"On the one hand that's a good thing because it maintains their independence. But it also increases their vulnerability because if their family aren't nearby or they don't have good relationships with their family, then things can go out the window," Ms Evans said.

A positive was that people were learning to speak out if they suspected someone was being abused.

"They can always come to us and give us information confidentially. If that happens I can visit the person and make an assessment and organise what help's needed. Whanganui District Health Board, supporting agencies and the police are very good.

She said abuse tended to involve family members because "they have a sense of entitlement".

"Then we've got others caring for a family member and who gets a caregiver's benefit. But I'd like to see these people get access to more training in caregiving.

"Not exams or anything like that but they need to understand exactly what 24/7 care is all about so they can push that button when they want help," she said.

"This isn't being judgmental because I take my hat off to these people. But we need safeguards in place."

If anyone felt vulnerable they should call Age Concern, Ms Evans said. World elder abuse awareness day starts a week of awareness and also commemorates the 10th anniversary of the event.

International studies show that 3-10 per cent of older people experience abuse or neglect every year. It happens to men and women of every religious, cultural, ethnic and socio-economic group.