Shelly Harpur from
NSW Elder abuse Helpline & Resource Unit highlighted the
WHO definition of elder abuse as “…a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person.” This is different to crimes committed by strangers. It may be physical, psychological or emotional, financial, sexual abuse and neglect (intentional and unintentional). The
NSW Elder Abuse Toolkit is a 5 step approach for identifying and responding to the abuse of older people and the Helpline is available to provide information, support and referrals to any caller who has experienced, witnessed, or suspects abuse of older people living in the community. Shelly suggested that libraries consider developing a policy for preventing and responding to the abuse of older people. The Helpline provide a
Model Policy.