29/10/02
Western Australian females are two and a half times more likely to experience elder abuse than males, according to research findings to be presented today at the International Federation on Ageing's Sixth Global Conference in Perth.
The research into the prevalence of elder abuse in WA was conducted by Curtin University's Freemasons Centre for Research into Aged Care Services and commissioned by the Office for Seniors Interests and Volunteering.
Seniors' Minister Sheila McHale said the findings were important in that they provided base-line data against which the success of future strategies could be evaluated.
"We've confirmed that elder abuse does occur; it is more prevalent in the 75 plus age group and it is primarily committed by adult children and partners," Ms McHale said.
"Financial abuse is the most common type followed by psychological and physical abuse.
"With this information we can ensure future prevention and intervention services target those most at risk of abuse and those more likely to commit abuse, as well as developing professional and public education strategies."
The researchers surveyed more than 1,000 organisations and 120 general practitioners in the field and found that the overall incidence of elder abuse in the 60 years and over resident WA population was nearly 6 in every 1,000 seniors. The results were consistent with similar studies conducted in the United States.
Ms McHale said the findings would inform the Active Ageing Taskforce whose brief includes investigating the feasibility of setting up an elder abuse protection service unit to advise how best to prevent and manage incidences of abuse. The taskforce is due to make its report to the Premier in March 2003.
The information will also be available to Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments to assist with the development and identification of successful intervention strategies to combat elder abuse.
Minister's Office - 9213 6900
