Resources and education

Elder abuse comes in many forms. It can be financial, emotional or psychological, physical, sexual, mistreatment or neglect. Elder abuse can occur once, or many times.

It can include one or a combination of the different types of abuse. Most often, elder abuse is carried out by someone known to the older person, with two thirds of abusers being an adult child. Abusers can also be other family members, relatives or friends. Elder abuse affects people of all genders and all walks of life. The abuse, however, disproportionately affects women. Two thirds of people seeking help from Seniors Rights Victoria are women.

Elder abuse can happen in any kind of family or relationship. It can range from a person not considering an older person’s needs to someone intentionally causing harm. Many forms of elder abuse can be criminal acts.

Seniors Rights Victoria provides information, support, advice and education to help prevent elder abuse and safeguard the rights, dignity and independence of older people. We help Victorians 60 and above, or any Indigenous Victorians 45 and above.

Seniors Rights Victoria advances the rights of older people and works to prevent elder abuse by advocating for policy positions and law reform. We make submissions to bodies including Royal Commissions, and federal and Victorian Parliamentary Enquiries. Where relevant, we provide comments and recommendations on proposed legislation.