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Category: Seniors

Signs of Neglect in Older People

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Every person, no matter how old they are, deserves to feel safe and cared about by their family, partner, friends, and carers.

Neglect is the failure to provide someone with necessities such as food, shelter, or medical care – or preventing someone from accessing these necessities.

The neglect of older people is a form of elder abuse.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss signs of elderly neglect, why seniors are vulnerable to neglect, and what resources are available for someone experiencing neglect.

 

1.      Inadequate clothing

Inadequate clothing may be clothes which are unclean, damaged, or inappropriate for the weather.

 

2.      Lack of medical or dental care

An older person lacking medical or dental care may indicate neglect.

Preventing someone from receiving care from anyone else, including healthcare providers, is an abusive behaviour.

Examples of lack of medical or dental care include:

  • Tooth decay or cavities
  • Missing or chipped teeth
  • Consistent complaints of being in pain
  • Sick, but has not gone to the doctor or received care
  • An ongoing medical problem that is not being addressed.

 

3.      Absence of required medical aids or devices

Is the older person missing their required medical aids such as hearing aids, walker, dentures, or medication? These may be signs of neglect which need to be addressed immediately for the health and safety of the older person.

 

4.      Poor personal hygiene, unkempt appearance

Untended hygiene or appearance may include unbrushed hair, unbrushed teeth, dirty skin or nails, or body odour.

 

5.      Injuries that have not been properly cared for

Bleeding wounds, infections, or untreated broken bones can be a sign of neglect. In any case, the person is not receiving proper care and will require immediate support.

 

6.      Complaints of it being too hot or too cold in their home

If the older person is complaining about the temperature in their home, it may indicate there isn’t proper heating or air con, or that they are restricted from using these utilities.

Especially in Queensland, not using the air con can be extremely dangerous for older people. Usage of air con and fans should not be restricted.

 

7.      Living in unsafe, unhealthy, dangerous, or unsanitary living conditions

Improper living conditions may include:

  • Mould
  • Unsecure entryways
  • Broken or faulty alarms
  • Damage to the home that has not been addressed
  • A disabled person living in a home that isn’t disability-friendly.

 

8.      Unexplained weight loss, dehydration, poor skin integrity, or malnutrition

These signs may indicate neglect in the form of improper nutrition. A carer should provide, or ensure access to, enough healthy food and clean drinking water.

 

What makes older people vulnerable to neglect?

Sometimes older people become less able or unable to look after themselves. It’s normal for an older person to depend on someone else for care, such as a family member, aged care staff, or a hired caretaker.

When one person is dependent on another, there is unfortunately potential for abuse and neglect.

The person experiencing abuse may be afraid to reach out for help, or may not even realise they’re being abused. That’s why we should all look out for these signs of neglect in our older loved ones.

 

Support is available

Did you know that one in six older Australians have experienced abuse in the past year? However, only one in three seek help.

There is no shame in reaching out for support.

The Senior Relationship Services (SRS) offer free support and referrals to older Queenslanders. Our Elder Abuse Prevention and Support Service (EAPSS) helps older folks who are experiencing elder abuse, including neglect.

 

If you or an older person you know may be a victim of elder abuse, our experienced staff are here to help. We can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.

You can learn more about our Elder Abuse Prevention and Support Service here, or call 1300 063 232.

 

Want to receive updates on our Senior Relationship Services blog posts?

 
 

What is family mediation?

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Have you found yourself in a family conflict with no idea what to do?

This conflict might be with anyone in your family, including your adult children or grandchildren. You may feel your wishes aren’t being heard or respected by your family.  

There’s no shame in seeking professional help. In fact, a mediator can help explore options for you and your family to safely move forward.

The Senior Relationship Mediation Service (SRMS) provides family mediation for older adults and their families. The SRMS advocates for the rights and wellbeing of older people, supporting respectful communication and fair outcomes.

 

What is mediation?

Mediation is a meeting (or series of meetings) guided by a professional mediator who helps the family resolve conflict and reach a mutually agreed solution.

The mediator acts as a neutral third party to support you to safely discuss difficult issues while building healthy, respectful relationships moving forward.

 

How can mediation help?

Mediation can help families to:

  • Resolve conflict
  • Agree on a way forward
  • Share their hopes and concerns
  • Understand each other’s perspectives
  • Learn healthy ways to manage conflict.

 

What happens in mediation?

Mediation involves a meeting with family members and a mediator in a safe, supportive environment. It’s voluntary and requires the consent of all participants.

The mediator guides the process with an agreed-upon agenda. A mediation meeting can take up to three hours, with the opportunity for additional sessions if needed. You may take breaks in between as needed.

Participants can also meet individually with mediators to privately share their concerns. This can be especially helpful if you don’t feel comfortable or safe raising certain issues with your family members present.

 

Senior Relationship Mediation Service

The SRMS is a free service for seniors and their families.

This service always acknowledges the wellbeing and best interest of the older person.

Additional safe, confidential support is available if you’re experiencing elder abuse. Whether it’s emotional, financial, physical, or another form of abuse, we can help.

“Older persons should be able to live in dignity and security and be free of exploitation and abuse.”
-The United Nations Principles on Human Rights of the Older Person

 

Marianne’s story

85-year-old Marianne* was being cared for by her live-in grandson Mitch.

Mitch was experiencing some personal troubles, and his behaviour was becoming aggressive, especially towards Marianne. Marianne asked Mitch to move out, which he did.

Marianne’s other grandchild was worried about her grandmother, so she contacted the SRMS.

Marianne, her children, and both of her grandchildren (including Mitch) agreed to attend mediation together. Marianne brought along a friend as a support person.

During mediation, Marianne shared that her strongest wish was to remain in her own home for as long as possible.

The mediation lasted for three hours. The family acknowledged Mitch’s mistreatment of Marianne. Mitch apologised to Marianne and showed evidence of changing his behaviours, so Marianne decided to allow Mitch to live with her as her carer again. The family decided together on Mitch’s caretaking tasks and agreed to review the arrangement in six months.

Marianne felt her wishes were heard and honoured by her family, and there was a greater level of family support and supervision for both Marianne and Mitch.

 

If you or an older person you know need help to resolve a conflict, our experienced counsellors are here to help. We can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.

You can learn more about our Senior Relationship Mediation Service here, or call 1300 063 232.

 

*Please note that names and details in this blog post have been altered to protect our client’s privacy.

 

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What is ageism?

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Have you ever made a judgement about someone because of their age? Or perhaps you’ve felt misunderstood or left out because of your age?

Ageism is defined as negative stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination against someone based on their age.

While ageism is one of the most common types of discrimination in Australia, the good news is it’s also one of the easiest to shift.

It contributes to older people’s vulnerability to elder abuse, with ageism being present in nearly half of reported elder abuse cases. Ageism can also impact older folks’ human rights and mental and physical wellbeing.

We review some examples of ageism, how it affects older adults, and how we can combat ageism to protect the seniors in our families and communities.

 

Examples of ageism

The World Health Organisation reports one in two people hold ageist views against older people.

So, what does ageism look like in our everyday lives?

Some examples of ageism are:

  • Not including someone because of their age
  • Treating someone differently because of their age
  • Assuming how much support an older person needs
  • Denying someone an opportunity because of their age
  • Deciding on behalf of an older person without consulting them
  • Controlling an older person’s finances because they are “too old.”

Even well-intended words or gestures, such as speaking loudly or assisting someone without asking first, can come across as condescending or patronising.

A study by Human Rights Australia found through ageism-awareness training in workplaces, 90% of participants reconsidered the way they communicate with older people and 82% reconsidered their attitude towards ageing.

“Ageism is one of the most pervasive and tolerated forms of prejudice in Australia, but our research confirms my long-held belief that it’s also one of the easiest to shift.”
-The Hon Dr Kay Patterson AO, Former Age Discrimination Commissioner of Australia

It’s critical to reflect on and reconsider our own views of older people and ageing.

 

How ageism affects older adults

As with any form of discrimination, ageism can have devastating effects on older adults. Ageism is associated with:

  • Declining mental health, especially depression
  • Exclusion, leading to social isolation and loneliness
  • Divide between generations, even within our own families
  • Barriers and obstacles, making resources and opportunities harder to access.

Ageism can create barriers to opportunities for employment, volunteering, medical and legal services, housing, digital inclusion, and community participation.

Learning about ageism is a great first step towards positive change. You can learn more about ageism in Australia on the Every Age Counts website.

 

How we can combat ageism against older people

Together, we can combat ageism against older people so they can live longer, happier lives. You can:

  1. Have respectful conversations
  2. Ask questions instead of assuming
  3. Get to know the older people in your life
  4. Discard ageist prejudices and stereotypes
  5. Be inclusive of the older folks in your communities
  6. Provide ageism awareness training in the workplace
  7. Keep in mind every older person was once your age.

 

If you or an older person you know is experiencing any form of abuse, our experienced counsellors are here to help. We can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.

You can learn more about our Elder Abuse Prevention and Support Service here or by calling 1300 063 232.

 

Want to receive updates on our Senior Relationship Services blog posts?

 

Protecting Mental Health in Older People

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Along with our physical wellbeing, our mental health is essential to our enjoyment of life, especially as we age.

Mental ill health, like depression and anxiety, is underdiagnosed in seniors, and symptoms can be overlooked because they occur alongside other challenges faced by older people.

But mental health can be improved and protected through active, healthy ageing practices.

Here are some tips on protecting your mental health in older age.

 

Self-advocacy

Self-advocacy is defined as “the ability to communicate your needs.” Those who self-advocate are shown to be more likely to thrive.

Being aware and informed about seniors’ rights, options, and vulnerabilities can help you become a better advocate for yourself. The Older Persons Advocacy Network helps older Australians to be educated self-advocates.

 

Having a hobby

Hobbies can help improve your mood, your memory, and can help you manage stress.

Ask yourself what interests you. Nature? Creative expression? Engaging your brain? Maybe you can pick up an old hobby again. Some hobbies, like golf or boardgames, can help you to expand your social circle.

You can search on Facebook or Meetup to find social clubs related to your hobby.

 

Cultural involvement

Studies show that involvement in cultural activities reduces the risk of depression in older people.

Participating in cultural activities can help you get in touch with your heritage, connect you with others from your culture, and can help you to feel like “yourself” again.

Cultural activities might include joining a local group, attending a cultural celebration, or reconnecting with cultural art and media.

 

Help-seeking behaviours

Research shows that older adults are much more likely to seek help for physical pain rather than for mental health.

Remember, your brain is a critical organ in your body and your mental health can directly impact your physical health.

Mental ill health is nothing to be ashamed of, and prioritising your mental wellbeing is a brave first step to healing.

Here is a list of important phone numbers for seniors.

 

Community participation

Studies show that participation in community activities is beneficial to mental health in seniors.

You can get involved in the community by:

  • Volunteering
  • Attending free local events
  • Becoming a regular at a local café
  • Joining local groups based on your hobbies
  • Connecting with your local community centre.

 

Maintaining physical health

Mental health and physical health go hand in hand. You can improve your mental health by making sure you are eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising regularly.

Some gentle activities that promote physical health include healthy eating, taking a daily walk, and practising yoga and stretching.

 

Peer support and social connection

Making friends at any age can feel scary – but you’re never too old to make new friends!

Research shows that social support is directly correlated with resilience amongst older adults.

Some ideas for staying social later in life include:

  • Rekindling old friendships
  • Joining local groups for seniors
  • Ringing a friend or family member
  • Sparking up a conversation with a neighbour.

Here are some social groups for senior adults in Southeast Queensland. You can learn more about staying socially connected in older age here.

 

Relationships Australia Queensland’s Senior Social Connection Program helps older Queenslanders in Sunshine Coast and Gympie to stay connected.

If you or an older person you know is feeling lonely or socially isolated, our Senior Relationships Services are here to help. Our experienced counsellors and community educators can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.

You can learn more about our Senior Social Connection Program here, or call 1300 063 232 to make an appointment.

How to Help an Older Person You’re Worried About

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Noticing a senior express signs of depression, anxiety, or possible abuse is never easy.

10 – 15% of older Australians experience depression or anxiety, while one in six older Australians report experiencing elder abuse.

If you’re wondering how to help an older person who seems to be struggling emotionally, it is possible to show that you’re there for them while encouraging them to access professional support.

We offer some advice on helping an elderly person you’re worried about.

 

Let them know you’re concerned

Gently share your concerns and let them know that you’re here for them.

Speak to them in a safe environment where there is enough time for them to talk. Listen actively without criticising.

Here is a guide on talking to an older person you’re worried about.

 

Reassure them

Older people can often feel shame and sadness when experiencing a situation like elder abuse.

Reassure them that their feelings are nothing to be ashamed of. Whether they are experiencing anxiety, depression, or abuse, it is not their fault.

 

Be compassionate

Put yourself in the shoes of your older loved one. If you were in this situation, what would you do? How might you feel? What kind of support would you want from your loved ones?

Responding with empathy and compassion will help build trust and a sense of safety. Having a loved one listen and validate their feelings might be just what your older loved one needs to move forward.

 

Encourage professional support

Research shows that over half of older adults do not seek psychological help because they believe their symptoms are normal.

Let them know that professional support is out there and off help to access support services online and via phone.

 

Offer practical support

When someone is going through a hard time, even practical support can make a huge difference.

Here are some practical ways you can help an older person you’re worried about:

  • Check in regularly
  • Invite them to activities
  • Drive them to appointments
  • Help get them out of the house
  • Offer to do their grocery shopping.

 

Spend time with them

Social isolation is a major cause of poor physical and mental health in seniors.

Spending time with an older person you’re worried about can be extremely beneficial for them.

You can spend time with an older person by:

  • Going for a walk
  • Regular phone calls
  • Watching the sunset
  • Sharing music together
  • Making or having dinner together
  • Playing board games, card games, or doing puzzles.

 

Connect them with the community

Research supports that seniors who stay connected within their community are at lower risk for anxiety and depression. They are also less vulnerable to experiencing elder abuse.

An older person can connect with the community through:

 

 

If you or an older person you know may be a victim of elder abuse, our experienced counsellors are here to help. We can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.

 

You can learn more about our Elder Abuse Prevention and Support Service here, or call 1300 063 232.

 

 

Want to receive updates on our Senior Relationship Services blog posts?

Making the Most of Intergenerational Living

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With the cost of living on the rise, more families are moving in together. While intergenerational living can have its benefits, having multiple family members under one roof can make it difficult to set boundaries and agree on day-to-day decisions.

Statistics show that thirteen percent of Australians have had to move back into their family home or have had an adult child move back in within the past twelve months.

We offer some tips on having a happy, healthy cohabiting situation with your older parents or with your adult child.

 

Set healthy boundaries

Boundaries help protect you within relationships and allow you to establish how you’d like to be treated.

It can be difficult to set boundaries with adult children or with parents, but it’s a healthy thing to do.

To set boundaries in a relationship, you should first identify your values, identity, and feelings. Then, communicate your needs and remain consistent about them.

We offer a guide to setting healthy boundaries here.

 

Respect other’s boundaries

Someone else’s boundaries are nothing personal and should always be respected. By adhering to someone else’s boundaries, you can keep your relationship healthy.

You can respect each other’s boundaries by:

  • Clearly discussing your boundaries
  • Respecting each other’s time and space
  • Remembering that no means no and stop means stop
  • Not snooping, sneaking, or going behind each other’s back
  • Not pushing or prying if someone does not want to talk about something
  • Taking note of what makes them uncomfortable and not doing that again.

 

Have all agreements in writing

When moving in together, it’s important to get all agreements in writing – no matter how much you trust each other.

Together, write out important information such as how much rent is to be paid and how any bills will be handled. Written agreements may protect you from future arguments, financial abuse, or relationship breakdown.

We suggest using a general tenancy agreement.

 

Let go of aged-based prejudice

Different generations often have perceived notions of how the other generations may be.

Prejudice against someone because of their age is called ageism. Ageism puts older people at risk of abuse, social isolation, and neglect. Ageism against younger people may cause relationship hardships.

You can let go of aged-based prejudice by:

  • Sharing your interests with each other
  • Recognising each other’s abilities and strengths
  • Doing activities together, such as games, cooking, or sharing a skill
  • Spending time with your family members who are a different age than you
  • Asking questions about each other, such as about hobbies, opinions, and experiences
  • Setting aside any stereotypes that you may have about older people or younger people.

 

Cherish this time spent together

It’s all too common for us to not realise the value of the time we get to spend with our families.

Reframing your perspective can help you to cherish this time spent living with your family. Use this opportunity to make memories together and learn from each other.

Making the most of the situation can strengthen your relationship.

 

Seek professional advice or mediation

Before making any major decisions, it’s wise to seek professional or legal advice.

Seeking advice can provide a neutral, third-party insight to your situation. They can also provide helpful solutions and make sure that the rights of everyone involved are protected.

Family mediation can help you to resolve conflict and to find a healthy way forward.

The Senior Relationships Mediation Service (SRMS) provides free family mediation which prioritises the wellbeing of the older person.

 

If you or an older person you know need assistance in repairing a relationship, our experienced counsellors are here to help. We can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.

You can learn more about our Senior Relationship Mediation Service here, or call 1300 063 232.

 

 

Want to receive updates on our Senior Relationship Services blog posts?

 

Older People and Gambling

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Gambling is engrained in Australian culture.

However, when gambling becomes harmful instead of positive, it can have severe consequences. Older Australians have the highest rates of many types of gambling and are particularly at risk of gambling harm.

We’ll go through the signs of gambling harm in older people and how you can help an older loved one you may be worried about.

 

Signs of gambling harm in seniors

Gambling becomes harmful when it starts to have negative consequences on the person’s life and wellbeing.

Signs that gambling is becoming harmful may include:

  • Sudden decrease in wealth
  • Lying about their gambling
  • Stress, anxiety, panic attacks
  • No other hobbies besides gambling
  • Using pension funds or savings to gamble
  • Increasing the amounts they are gambling
  • Gambling in the hopes of winning back losses
  • Not being able to set limits on gambling activities
  • Bragging about gambling wins or minimising losses
  • Irritability when asked about gambling or when not gambling.

 

Worrying numbers

Research shows that older Australians are more at risk of gambling harm than other age group.

Over 23% of older Australians play the pokies, compared to only 16% of the general adult population.

Over 63% of older Australians play the lottery.

 

Why older people gamble

Studies show that older Australians gamble due to loneliness, the need for social interaction, and ease of access.

Social isolation

Social isolation is a major cause of loneliness amongst the elderly. A study by Relationships Australia reveals that over 27% of retired Australians feel lonely.

Older people are at risk of social isolation due to factors such as mobility issues, friends or spouses passing away, and retirement.

Ease of access

Gaming venues in Australia tend to offer promotions targeting older people. Incentives may include cheap meals for seniors, free entertainment geared toward an older audience, and free shuttle buses to and from venues.

These promotions make gambling easy for older people to access, but they can also exploit older people’s vulnerabilities.

 

Advice for loved ones

Learning about safer gambling can protect your older loved one’s financial wellbeing.

We offer a guide to talking to an older person you’re worried about here.

Below are some ways you can help protect your older loved one from the risks of gambling harm:

Suggest less risky hobbies

Suggest alternate hobbies that are accessible and safe for someone of their age group and ability level. Ideas may include joining a local social club, gardening, or puzzles.

Help them to access other activities

While gambling venues are often accessible for the older population, other activities may be harder to attend due to transportation or mobility issues.

You can help by offering to drive them to safer activities, such as free senior social groups.

Here is a list of ten fun, safe activities for seniors.

Be honest about the odds of winning

Studies show that older Australians have limited understanding of Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs), as well as misperceptions about potential EGM harm.

Gently communicate with your loved one about gambling’s risk of losing versus the odds of winning.

 

RAQ offers a Senior Financial Protection Service (SFPS), a free community education program to help older people make informed decisions and to stay safe from financial elder abuse.

You can learn more about the SFPS here, or by calling 1300 063 232.

 

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60s and Older Social Groups in Southeast Queensland

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Staying socially active and keeping up with friends later in life is vital. Social connections have positive impacts on both your physical and mental health.

Being older comes with obstacles that may make it difficult to make and maintain social connections.

Here are some free social opportunities in Southeast Queensland for seniors in their 60s and older:

 

Seniors Morning Tea

Social relationships are critical for our mental and physical health. Research shows that seniors who stay social are at decreased risk for illness, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

Connecting with similar-aged people can help you to socialise and make friends.

The Senior Social Connection Program (SSCP) hosts a free weekly Seniors Morning Tea at the Gympie Health Hub. Please call 1300 063 232 to confirm dates and times.

 

Seniors Cuppa and Conversations

Joining a social group for those in their 60s and older can help you to get back out there and make new friends.

In older age, socialising significantly decreases the risk for depression, anxiety, and dementia.

Friday Cuppa and Conversations is a free fortnightly event for seniors.

The group meets on Thursdays at the Nambour Community Centre  and on Fridays at the Millwell Road Community Centre.

Please call the SSCP at 1300 063 232 to confirm dates and times.

 

Community Centres

Community centres offer a wide range of free groups for seniors. Some community centres offer specific groups for seniors who are culturally diverse, veterans, or who have disabilities, for example.

You can find free seniors groups hosted by community centres on:

You can also ask your local community centre about senior social groups. If they don’t have one, they may know of another organisation who hosts a senior social group near you.

 

Aged Care Visitor Scheme

The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) is a federally funded program that provides friendship to older people through volunteer visitors.

The ACVVS particularly caters to seniors who are socially isolated. Reasons for social isolation may include coming from a culturally diverse background, living in a remote location, or having a disability.

You can learn more about the ACVVS on the Australian Government website here.

You can sign up to request a volunteer visitor through the ACVVS here.

 

Relationships Australia Queensland’s Senior Social Connection Program helps older Queenslanders in Sunshine Coast and Gympie to stay connected.

If you or an older person you know is feeling lonely or socially isolated, our Senior Relationships Services are here to help. Our experienced counsellors can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.

You can learn more about our Senior Social Connection Program here, or call 1300 063 232 to make an appointment.

Want to receive updates on our Senior Relationship Services blog posts?

 

Protective Factors for Elder Abuse

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One in six older Australians report experiencing elder abuse in the past year.

Certain factors can affect one’s vulnerability to abuse.

Here are some lifestyle habits that can help protect yourself or an older loved one from experiencing elder abuse.

 

Having peer support

Connecting with similar-aged people under professional guidance can be beneficial for preventing and overcoming elder abuse.

Benefits of being in a peer support group include:

  • Referrals to helpful resources
  • Having a safe space to talk openly
  • Becoming educated and informed about ageing
  • Getting advice from both peers and professionals
  • Connecting with others who are in a similar stage of life.

The Senior Social Connection Program (SSCP) provides peer support to older people in Southeast Queensland.

The Queensland Government website lists senior peer groups offered across the state.

 

Seeing a financial counsellor

In Queensland, financial abuse is the most common type of elder abuse.

A financial counsellor can help you to protect your money and assets.

The Senior Financial Protection Service (SFPS) is a free program for older Queenslanders. The SFPS provides community education on protecting your finances in older age.

 

Practising healthy relationships

Healthy, respectful relationships with loved ones is a key protective factor for older people at risk of abuse.

If you want to improve a relationship with a loved one, you may consider mediation. Mediation provides a safe space for constructive conversations under professional guidance.

Elder abuse is most often inflicted by an adult child. If you feel anxious or unsafe around one of your children, we offer some advice here.

 

Seeking help from support services

If you or an older loved one may be experiencing elder abuse, there’s no shame in asking for help.

There is help available for anyone at risk of elder abuse, including:

These free services provide safe support that prioritises the wellbeing of the older person.

 

Being mentally and physically active

Those with good physical and mental health are less likely to experience elder abuse. For example, poor physical health may lead to increased dependency, which can raise the risk of elder abuse.

Activities like yoga, walking, gardening, arts and crafts, and brain games or puzzles can benefit the mind and the body.

You may want to consider your capacity to own a pet, as pets can increase opportunities for getting outdoors, social interaction, and physical activity.

 

Being outspoken about your wants and values

Make sure that those important to you know your wants and your values.

Some ways to make sure your wishes are known include:

When you are vocal about what you want, loved ones can more effectively help you when you need it.

 

Seeking legal advice before any major change

You should seek professional and legal advice before making any major life changes. These changes may include moving in with family, selling property, or setting up an EPOA.

You can find free legal advice for seniors from Community Legal Centres Queensland.

If an agreement is made, make sure it is in writing.

 

If you or an older person you know may be a victim of elder abuse, our experienced counsellors are here to help. We can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.

You can learn more about our Elder Abuse Prevention and Support Service here, or call 1300 063 232.

 

 

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Signs of Being Humbugged in First Nations Elders

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Humbugging is when a person makes unreasonable demands from a family member.

First Nations Elders can become vulnerable to humbugging as a form of financial elder abuse.

Here are some signs of being humbugged as a form of elder abuse, and some tips to protect yourself as an Elder, or protect your Elders.

 

Why does humbugging happen?

First Nations Families may struggle with the financial demands of living in colonised Australia, where employment opportunities and other pressures impact family life.

Some individuals and families may not have learned the skills of managing on a tight budget. They may turn to risky means, like borrowing or taking from Elders who have a limited income.

 

When does humbugging become financial elder abuse?

Humbugging may be difficult to spot when it is done against older people, especially when it is between a parent and child.

Humbugging can become financial elder abuse when there are threats, theft, or other types of abuse involved.

 

Humbugging behaviours

Signs of humbugging as financial elder abuse may include:

  • Demanding money
  • Only visiting around payday
  • Not returning “borrowed” money
  • Paying for things with your money
  • Forcing you to sign up for a credit card
  • Overstaying their welcome in your home
  • Forcing you to claim government benefits
  • Taking control of your money or your property
  • Taking advantage of the relationship by not repaying.

 

Protecting yourself from humbugging

An Elder may feel confused about handing over money, because they may have grown up in poverty and they do not want to see their family members experience that, too.

However, protecting your money will help you to protect yourself.

You can protect your money from humbugging by:

  • Prioritising yourself when budgeting
  • Checking your bank statements regularly
  • Not sharing your PIN codes to your bank cards
  • Not letting others know your payment schedule
  • Setting up a savings account that cannot easily be accessed when shopping or at the ATM.

 

How to get help

There is no shame in asking for help.

First Nations Peoples are welcome in our service, and we are happy to help. The Elder Abuse Prevention and Support Service provides free, confidential, and culturally safe support for older Queenslanders who may be experiencing elder abuse.

 

If you or an older person you know may be a victim of elder abuse, our experienced counsellors are here to help. We can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.

You can learn more about our Elder Abuse Prevention and Support Service here, or call 1300 063 232.

 

 

Want to receive updates on our Senior Relationship Services blog posts?