With World Elder Abuse Awareness Day tomorrow, (15 June 2023), the Public Trustee is urging individuals to prioritise the well-being and safety of their elderly friends and relatives. 

Shockingly, the majority of elder abuse cases are perpetrated by family members, highlighting the need for vigilance.

Public Trustee CEO, Todd Kennedy, emphasised the emerging threat of online scams targeting the elderly in particular. 

“We have one elderly client who had been convinced by scammers the client was about to marry a famous celebrity and needed to make a ‘payment’ for the wedding,” Mr Kennedy said. 

“Fortunately, we were able to protect that client, but it highlights just how vulnerable some people are in our community.

“The Public Trustee works with some of Tasmania’s most vulnerable people and elder abuse is something that we are constantly looking to protect our clients from.

“But all Tasmanians have a role to play.  The Australian Institute of Family Studies research found that Elder abuse affects around one in six older Australians, but it’s difficult to know the true extent because it is often not reported.

“Every Tasmanian should be looking out for elderly friends or relatives to help keep them safe.  If anyone needs more information they can contact the Elder Abuse Hotline on 1800 441 169.”

For more information call 1800 068 784.

Click here for more information on What Financial elder abuse looks like and prevention steps. 

Click here for more information on Elder Abuse Help and Resources