The most recent study of elder abuse prevalence in Australia found that 14.8% of those 65 years and over had experienced at least one recognised form of elder abuse over the previous 12 months.
This statistic highlights why World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is important, providing a global opportunity to stand together against the abuse, mistreatment and neglect of older people.
Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, psychological, emotional, sexual and financial abuse. Other forms of abuse include coercive control and humbugging. It is most often carried out by someone the older person knows and trusts – most commonly an adult child, but also other family members or friends.
Elder abuse affects people from all backgrounds. However, women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, LGBTI communities, and those in rural or regional areas also face increased vulnerability.
To mark WEAAD 2026, the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) spoke with members of the National Older Persons Reference Group (NOPRG) about what the day means to them.
Two themes ring true – ageist attitudes continue to be an enabler of elder abuse and supporting older people to remain the decision-makers in their own lives is key to helping prevent abuse.
Danijela Hlis
Danijela said that older people staying in control of their choices and values is an important measure in protecting against elder abuse.
‘WEAAD is a day we are reminded of many different ways we elders are abused by family, friends, service providers, as well as governments – anyone who does not respect our choices and our human right to be listened to, heard and understood’.
While people may mean well, there is a tendency for others to think they know what is best for older people and exclude them from decision making, she said.
‘We [older people] need to learn how to speak up and alert people that our voice is the most important one in the discussion.
‘We need to be brave with self-advocacy and getting OPAN advocacy help. We need to educate each other of recognising abuse and ways to stop it… it is still too much a taboo topic.’
Danijela believes that education, stronger legislation, and clearly defined consequences for anyone guilty of elder abuse is needed to address the issue.
Cecil Camilleri
Cecil said WEAAD is an opportunity to raise the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Older people – a matter that he believes is taking too long to settle.
His message is a straightforward one: ‘No more dillydallying.’
Cecil was also clear as to why he believes abuse of the older person is often overlooked and misunderstood. ‘Because it is not expedient to do so,’ he said.
‘Because we, the elderly, are perceived to be a cost-centre, unproductive. Moreover, addressing the issue requires political courage, which is, unfortunately, sadly lacking. Maybe, modern society is morally bankrupt.’
Responsibility to recognise elder abuse is not just on the older person and others in the community must respond with ‘moral outrage’.
‘Unfortunately, the standing of the family unit has diminished in modern Australian society. Family values are, arguably, not in vogue! Ageism, marginalisation and dehumanisation are a wicked social problem in more ways than one.’
Cecil said older people need a respectful society to feel safe to speak up and empathised with those who feel unheard.
‘I understand. I know how difficult it is. If you feel unsafe speaking up, find someone you trust and who is prepared to be courageously vulnerable, and compassionately assist you to express yourself in a manner of your approved choice.’
Philip Hodges
For Philip Hodges, WEAAD is not just about older people raising awareness or receiving information about elder abuse. It is a day for others to listen to older people to ensure they can live the lifestyle they want with respect, dignity and freedom.
Philip believes there is a lack of communication and understanding of elder abuse and where to go for help without fear of reprisal.
‘[Elder abuse] is very much overlooked by families, relatives and the industry as a whole.’ he said.
He feels that the ‘list is endless’ when it comes to what needs to change regarding attitudes toward elder abuse, including legal reform and workforce culture within the medical and aged care systems.
Philip has seen older people ‘rushed’ into residential homes to free up hospital beds or due to family pressure, when being at home may have been a more appropriate option.
‘We [older people] have worked hard – we have a brain and a voice. We know what we want and what we do not,’ he said.