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Care Community Co-Founder: “The Elderly Should be Cherished, not Abused.”

Announcement posted by Tall Trees Care Communities 19 Nov 2014

Co-founder of popular alternative to aged care in Brisbane reveals how to detect and combat elderly abuse.
Australia, 19 November 2014 - The elderly face many issues, but few of them are as heartbreaking as elder abuse. Phil Usher is the co-founder of Tall Trees Care Communities, who provide an alternative to traditional aged care in the Brisbane and Gold Coast areas. Mr Usher is a staunch advocate of the rights of the elderly. Recently, on his company blog, Mr Usher published an article detailing what constitutes abuse and how to detect it.

What Constitutes Elder Abuse?

According to the Queensland Government, elder abuse is defined as, “any act within a relationship of trust that results in harm to an older person.” This can be physical or sexual abuse, but also emotional abuse or neglect. Financial abuse may be the most common type of elder abuse as relatives and carers try to control the victim’s money and keep as much for themselves as possible.

Commonly, an abuser’s first step is to attempt to isolate the victim by making it difficult for anyone on the outside to speak to them or see them. Once the victim is isolated, it becomes more difficult for abuse to be detected. Abusers will threaten to destroy valued possessions or even hurt pets if the victim doesn’t comply with their wishes. Acts of humiliation, harassment and intimidation are common.

Financially, the biggest step is to talk or coerce the victim into granting Power of Attorney. This allows the perpetrator to funnel all of the victim’s funds into their own pockets. By the time anyone notices, the victim’s money is gone.

Detecting Elder Abuse

Due to the isolation and control that abusers often perpetrate upon their victims, it can be difficult to detect elder abuse. However, there are some signs that may indicate abuse. The first is the isolation. If one is told by a carer that an elderly friend or relative is “busy,” “asleep” or “not available” every time they call, there is a good chance that abuse is being perpetrated.

If one is able to see and talk to someone they suspect is an abuse victim, there are some changes in behaviour that are common. Sometimes the victim will become agitated or nervous for “no reason.” Unexplained bouts of trembling, crying or shaking can be an indication of abuse.

Abuse victims often become withdrawn or depressed, sometimes to a point of mentioning suicide. They often adopt a rigid or “guarded” posture. They may lose interest in things that used to be important to them. Their eating, sleeping or bathing habits may change. They may become passive in discussions, waiting for others to contribute or answer questions.

What to Do

The Queensland Government has an Elder Abuse Prevention Unit hotline: 1300 651 192. If immediate intervention is necessary due to dangerous levels of abuse, it is recommended to call the police.

Tall Trees Care Communities provide an alternative to aged care in Brisbane. Their residents choose their own level of care and own their homes. The staff is caring and dedicated to preserving the independence and dignity of the elderly. To learn more or schedule a trial stay, call (07) 3442 9378 or visit their website: http://www.talltrees.net.au/.