What is elder abuse?

Elder abuse is defined by the World Health Organisation as:

“A single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust that causes harm or distress to an older person.”

Importantly, elder abuse occurs within the context of a relationship of trust. This might be an older person experiencing abuse perpetrated by a family member (such as an adult child), a friend or neighbour, or a paid caregiver.