More elderly people tell of abuse

Elder abuse reports are spiralling in Manawatu, with Age Concern investigating six new cases in the first three days of this week alone.

"It's been full-on since we got back on January 12," said elder abuse and neglect prevention co- ordinator Rachel Ellery.

"It has just gone through the roof."

Reported cases went up more than fourfold in the last six months of 2008 compared with the first half of the year, up from 34 to 143.

Of those cases in the second half of the year, 62 needed ongoing support.

Manager Sue Gould said when staff returned to work after the New Year break, they were confronted with 77 phone messages and 150 emails all requesting help, including cases for the Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention service.

Last year, almost all of the rest homes in Manawatu and Tararua took part in Age Concern's elder abuse and neglect training scheme.

Alerting more caregivers to the signs and symptoms of abuse in its many forms had sparked increased reporting.

"There's also an increased level of self-awareness and referrals from other agencies, with people seeking information, advice and advocacy."

Have Your Say
Have you been affected? Write to the editor at PO Box 3, Palmerston North, email editor@msl.co.nz, text 027 498 1242, or post your comments below.

- © Fairfax NZ News