Promoting the right of all older people to live free from abuse.
The Elder Abuse Prevention Unit (EAPU) was established in 1997 following the release of “A Report of the Project on Abuse of Older People” (1994) commissioned by the then Department of Family Services and Aboriginal and Islander Affairs. The unit is funded by the Queensland Government to provide a state-wide service to respond to the abuse of older people in Queensland and operates under Uniting Care Qld, Child and Family Services.

The Elder Abuse Prevention Helpline is a first port–of–call for support, referrals and information about elder abuse. We provide free assistance to anyone who experiences, witnesses or suspects the abuse of an older person by someone they know and trust. All calls to our Helpline are confidential and the caller is welcome to remain anonymous; we do not record calls or keep notes. The Helpline is senior-focused, respectful and non-judgmental and offers you the time to talk things over at your pace. Elder Abuse is a complex issue and our role is to work with you on what the best options may be for you and your family. Sometimes, contact with a number of agencies may be required.
“Elder Abuse is a single or repeated act, lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.” (WHO, 2002). Abuse can be experienced by men and women, rich and poor from all cultures and races. An abused older person may live on their own or in a household. They could be taking care of themselves, caring for someone, or being cared for by someone. The person doing the abusing is often someone the older person knows and should be able to trust; such as a daughter or son, grandchild, spouse, other family member, Carer or friend.
Types of Abuse
·      Financial – the illegal and improper use of an older person’s money and or property
·      Psychological – causing mental anguish, fear of violence feelings of shame, humiliation and powerlessness
·      Physical – inflicting pain or injury such as hitting, slapping, restraining or under medicating
·      Neglect- intentional or unintentional failure of a Carer to provide necessities of life to a person who depends on them
·      Sexual – assault, rape or any activity that makes the senior feel uncomfortable about their gender.
Protecting Yourself
·      If in immediate danger – call the Police on 000 (triple zero)
·      Have a safety plan
·      Call Elder Abuse Prevention Helpline for support, information and referrals to agencies who may be of practical assistance
·      Do not make major life decisions and changes at a time of crisis
·      Retain as much control over your life as possible and remain socially connected
·      Make informed decisions by seeking independent legal and financial advisors rather than using your son’s/ daughter’s advisors.
·      Use accredited interpreters if needed.
ELDER ABUSE PREVENTION UNIT HELPLINE: 1300 651 192.
Interstate: 07 3867 2525 (normal charges apply so please ask us to call you back). (Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 9am – 5 pm)
Email: eapu@uccommunity.org.au
Website: www.eapu.com.au
Patricia Arora
TMCCA