Media Release

Age Concern New Zealand

June 13, 2012

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, June 15 2012

Age Concern, New Zealand’s leading organization for older people, estimates elder abuse to be as big an issue as child abuse. Just like child abuse, it has to stop.

Each day Age Concerns around New Zealand receive an average of four calls about abuse or neglect. Age Concern New Zealand’s Chief Executive Ann Martin says unfortunately this is just the tip of the iceberg.

“Elder abuse destroys lives. We have seen it cost older people their life savings, health, home, dignity and security. It’s an issue that warrants serious attention.

“Ultimately we all pay the price as abuse can affect a person’s ability to contribute to their community and impact on health related costs.”

Martin says elder abuse takes many forms: financial, physical, emotional and sexual. Neglect is also a form of abuse.

Age Concern tackles elder abuse on a number of fronts offering working with a number of agencies to support and empower older people, challenging ageist attitudes and representing older people in Government submissions.

On Friday, Age Concerns around New Zealand will be marking WEAD with different events and attractions. For more information about what is happening in your area please visit http://www.ageconcern.org.nz/safety/elder-abuse/world-elder-abuse-awareness-day-events

ENDS

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