Since 2006 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is acknowledged on June 15 in many countries. Publicity puts the spotlight on elder abuse, and older people’s rights to live free from exploitation and abuse.

Take the Step. You’re not alone.

Every day, older people across Aotearoa New Zealand take courageous steps, reaching out, asking for help, and seeking safety. And last year, Age Concerns around the country supported over 3,000 people in elder abuse cases.

If something doesn’t feel right, if someone is making you uncomfortable, or if you’re unsure where to turn—take the step. You’re not alone.

There are people who will listen. People who will support you. People who care about your safety, your dignity, and your wellbeing.

Reaching out is not a burden. It’s an act of strength.
And when you do, we’ll walk with you, every step of the way.

Help is here when you’re ready.

Elder Abuse Response Service, freephone 0800 32 668 65, text 5032,
or call Age Concern on 0800 65 2 105.

Responding to Elder Abuse

We provide information, support, and advice.

Age Concern Nelson Tasman’s Elder Abuse Response service provides information, support, and advice to older people and their families/whānau to help prevent elder abuse and neglect. We also coordinate intervention services when abuse or neglect is identified.

We work collaboratively with many support agencies across the region including the police, social workers, home-based support services, lawyers and government agencies.

Fill in the referral form below and we will get in touch to assist you.

Elder abuse referral form

What is elder abuse?

Elder abuse could be psychological, financial, physical, institutional, neglect, or sexual.

In Nelson Tasman we see around 100 people each year who are suffering from some form of elder abuse. The majority of these cases are financial and of that, approximately three-quarters are by family members.

*“Elder Abuse is a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring in any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.”*

(WHO Toronto Declaration on the Global Prevention of Elder Abuse, 2002.)

This definition includes situations of neglect by a person who could reasonably be expected to meet the needs of the older person, but it does not include self- neglect.

What if you suspect elder abuse?

Tell someone – it is important to speak out if you think someone is being abused or you’re worried about them.

You may be uncomfortable reporting the abuse, especially if the abuser is someone you know, but the safety and wellbeing of the older person is the most important consideration.

If the abuse is occurring;