Age Concern New Zealand media release 2 April, 2014

Do not turn a blind eye to elder abuse and neglect

In a distressing case of elder abuse, Jo-Ann Quinn, 51, has this afternoon, been found guilty of failing to provide the necessaries of life to her mother, Maureen Quinn, 82.

Age Concern New Zealand urges people not to turn a blind eye to elder abuse, following this tragic case of neglect.

If you think an older person is being abused, call Age Concern to get help. No one should ever have to endure what Maureen Quinn went through.

Age Concern Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention Services National Advisor, Louise Collins says, “this is indeed a tragic case. Every case of abuse is tragic. Unfortunately, Age Concern deals with many distressing cases of abuse and neglect.”

Age Concern Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention Services “receive over 2,000 referrals for cases of suspected abuse every year” says Mrs Collins.

Mrs Collins says that “information obtained from Age Concern Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention Services indicate that the older a person is, and the more reliant they are on others for care and support, the more likely they are to be abused.”

Elder abuse is fuelled by ageist attitudes and lack of respect for older people. We can improve the care of older people in the community by valuing them and treating them with dignity and respect, by improving social connections for older people and supplying information and support to family members who are providing elder care.

If you think an older person is being abused call your local Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention Service. Contact details are available at www.ageconcern.nz

Ends

© Scoop Media