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Elder abuse is a serious and often hidden issue that affects older people across all cultures and communities. It can take many forms, including physical abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, and controlling or threatening behaviours. Physical abuse may involve hitting, pushing, restraining, or causing pain or injury. In many cases, the harm is inflicted by someone the older person trusts, such as a family member or caregiver, making it harder to identify and report.
Within ethnic communities, elders are traditionally respected and valued. However, cultural expectations, fear of shame, language barriers, and dependence on family care or support can prevent elders from speaking out. Some may see the abuse as a private “family matter” and feel pressure to endure harm to keep families together. This silence can allow abuse to continue and worsen over time.
Elder abuse is deeply concerning because it affects an older person’s health, dignity, and safety. Physical abuse can lead to serious injuries and long term health problems. Emotional abuse and neglect can cause fear, anxiety, depression, and isolation. Financial abuse, such as pressuring elders to give money, pensions, or property, can leave them vulnerable and powerless. When these behaviours occur within families, elder abuse becomes a form of family harm that impacts not only the elder, but also children and future generations.
Reporting elder abuse is not about blaming or breaking families apart, it is about protection and support. If you are concerned about your safety or the safety of an elderly person, speak to a trusted health professional, community leader, or an elder abuse support service. There are a range of support service providers available, which can offer confidential and culturally appropriate support .If there is immediate danger or an emergency, always call 111.
Protecting our elders protects our communities. Speaking up can save lives. For any further information please contact Constable Gulab Singh, Ethnic people community relation officer
Tāmaki Mākaurau
M +64 21 1958031
E [email protected]
TIN Bureau