Harper Sercombe
On Thursday June 15, Whittlesea will mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), to highlight the importance of the rights of older people.
Elder abuse is any act which causes harm to an older person and is carried out by someone they know and trust, such as a family member or friend.
The abuse may be financial, emotional, psychological, physical, social or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect.
To highlight the significance of this issue, the council will host a free Ageing Well Expo on June 21, from 10am to 3pm, at the Plenty Ranges Art and Convention Centre at 35 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang.
Whittlesea’s chair dministrator Lydia Wilson said everyone at every age has the right to live safely and to be treated with dignity and respect in the community.
“The City of Whittlesea will stand alongside communities worldwide to support this vital cause council is committed to raising awareness and providing important information to the community about services available,” she said.
“The Ageing Well Expo is also a great way to discover the latest information, services and expert advice in staying safe and ageing well.
“The expo will bring together a diverse range of products, services, information and educational resources to keep people safe and supported to continue living in their own home as they age.”
If you, or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, help is available through Senior Rights Victoria’s confidential helpline on 1300 368 821. If it is an emergency, call triple-0.
