We aim to address the immediate needs of kaumatua/elder people experiencing, or at risk of, elder abuse and neglect from a cultural perspective that protects the mana of our elders and extends support to the whole whānau.

People aged 65 years and over and their whānau living in Eastern Bay of Plenty, Western Bay of Plenty, Taupō and Turangi who have experienced or at risk of experiencing abuse and/or neglect.

We will visit you in your home or somewhere you are comfortable to talk. Our Elder Abuse Responder will work with you and your whānau to protect your immediate safety, discuss your wellbeing and identify your goals. We understand that it can be difficult speaking up and that is why our team will provide a safe environment for you to lead the process. We will offer you support and advocacy, put you in touch with the right services and assist you to reconnect with whānau. We will continue to walk alongside you until you are confident, empowered and safe.  We extend this support to your whānau or significant others affected by the abuse.

As many as one in ten elder people in New Zealand will experience some kind of elder abuse. The majority of cases will go unreported.

Any act that causes harm to an elder person is elder abuse. At its most extreme, abuse may be criminal, but it can also be more subtle.

There is no single ‘type’ of elder abuse. It can be psychological, financial, physical or sexual. More often than not, people experience more than one type of abuse.

Behaviour causing mental anguish, stress or fear.  For example:

• ridicule or threats
• harassment or humiliation
• preventing choice or decision-making
• withholding affection.

Illegal or improper use of money, property or other assets.  For example:

• unauthorised taking of money or possessions
• misuse of power of attorney
• failure to repay loans
• use of home and/or utilities without contributing to costs
• scams that rely on establishing a relationship with the older person with the intention of exploiting their savings and/or assets, e.g. romance scams.

Infliction of pain, injury or use of force.  For example:

• hitting, pushing, rough handling
• over-medication
• inappropriate use of restraints or confinement.

Not providing physical, emotional or social needs. For example:

• inadequate food, clothing, shelter
• lack of social contact, support
• health needs not attended to.

Non-consensual sexual acts or exploitive behaviours. For example:

• inappropriate touching
• sexual acts with someone unable to give consent.

A policy or accepted practice within an organisation that disregards a person’s rights or causes harm. For example:

• lack of respect for a person’s culture or customs
• inappropriate rationing of continence products
• inflexible routines e.g. breakfast at 8 am in the dining room.