Standing with older people on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day  

Older people hold a special place in our families and communities – they share stories, wisdom, experience and connections that enrich all of us. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 15 June is a moment to pause, listen and recommit to ensuring older people can live with dignity, safety and respect.

Elder abuse can be hard to talk about, but talking about it is one of the most powerful ways we can help prevent it.

What is elder abuse?

Elder abuse is any behaviour that harms an older person’s rights, safety, or wellbeing. It can be deliberate or unintentional and it often happens in private spaces - in homes, in families or within trusted relationships.

Abuse can take many forms, including:

• Psychological abuse: put‑downs, threats, controlling behaviour or isolating someone from friends and whānau
• Financial abuse: pressure to give money or assets, unexplained withdrawals or someone taking control of finances without proper consent
• Neglect: not providing enough food, clothing, medical care or support, even when someone has a responsibility to do so
• Physical or sexual abuse: any physical harm or unwanted contact

Sometimes the signs are obvious, like bruises or sudden money problems. Other times they are subtle: a usually chatty person becomes withdrawn, a neighbour stops attending their usual social activities or an older person seems anxious when a particular person is around.

Who does elder abuse affect in New Zealand?

Elder abuse can affect anyone over 65, across all communities, cultures and income levels in Aotearoa. Research suggests that up to one in ten older people may experience some form of abuse, with serious impacts on physical health, mental wellbeing and feelings of safety and connection.

We also know some groups may face higher risks. Older Māori report higher levels of coercion, such as being pressured into doing things they do not want to do or having belongings taken without permission. Older people who are widowed, separated or living alone may be more vulnerable to loneliness, dependence, and unhealthy relationships, which can increase the risk of abuse going unnoticed.

For many, asking for help is incredibly courageous. Age Concern’s work shows that every day, older people around the country are taking steps to reach out, seek advice and find safety.

Signs to watch for

You don’t need to be an expert to notice when something feels ‘not quite right’. Simple changes in behaviour or circumstances can be early warning signs that an older person needs support. Some signs can include:

• Unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts or broken bones
• Sudden weight loss, poor hygiene or appearing constantly tired or unwell
• Increased anxiety, sadness, confusion or withdrawal from usual activities
• Changes in living conditions, for example, a home that suddenly seems neglected or unsafe
• Unexplained bank withdrawals or changes to wills, loans, or property ownership
• An older person being stopped from seeing friends, whānau or support workers

If you notice these signs, especially more than one at the same time, it can be a signal to check in gently and see if the person is OK.

How we can all help

Elder abuse is not just a ‘family issue’ – it is a community issue. All of us, as friends, neighbours, carers and whānau, have a role to play in creating safe, respectful environments for older people.

Some simple ways to help include:

• Staying connected: regular phone calls, visits and check‑ins help reduce isolation and make it easier to notice changes
• Listening without judgement: if an older person hints that something is wrong, believe them, give them time, and avoid minimising their concerns
• Respecting mana and independence: involve older people in decisions, especially about their money, home, and care, and support them to express their wishes
• Encouraging planning: Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPAs) can help older people choose who they trust to make decisions if they are no longer able to, and are a key focus of the Office for Seniors’ current campaign

For those of us working in care and support, providing quality, person‑centred care includes being alert to signs of harm and knowing when to speak up. Building trusting relationships, maintaining professional boundaries, and working as part of a wider support team can all help protect older people’s rights and wellbeing.

Where to find help and resources

If you are worried about yourself or an older person you know, there are services ready to listen and help. Support can be anonymous and you do not need to be certain that abuse is happening before you reach out.

Key places to start in Aotearoa New Zealand include:

• Elder Abuse Response Service (EARS): free, confidential 24‑hour helpline: 0800 32 668 65 (0800 EA NOT OK), text 5032, or email support@elderabuse.nz
• Age Concern: local elder abuse response services, information about rights, and resources including guides on Enduring Powers of Attorney. 
• Office for Seniors: resources, videos, and printable materials to help people recognise the signs of elder abuse and promote prevention 
• Health and disability services: your GP, local health provider, or support worker can also help connect you with specialist services

If anyone is in immediate danger, call 111 and ask for the police.

Our commitment

Mycare knows that good in‑home support is about more than tasks, it is about relationships built on trust, respect and safety. We encourage workers, clients and families using our platform to speak up if something does not feel right and to reach out for support early.

This World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, we invite you to learn the signs, share information, and check in on the older people in your life. A quiet conversation, a phone call or a small act of kindness could be the first step to keeping someone safe.