There are two common misconceptions about older people and crime. The first is that older people are very likely to be victims of crime, and the second is that they have a greater fear of crime than the rest of the community.
Crime statistics and community surveys in Western Australia, conducted by the Office for Seniors Interests and Volunteering and the Australian Bureau of Statistics, indicate that older people are in fact the least likely group to be victims of crime. Community surveys also suggest that older people may be no more afraid of crime than anyone else.
Older people are more likely to be a victim of consumer fraud than assault. For advice on scams and dishonest sales, call the Department of Consumer and Employment Protection on 1300 304 054, or if you have been a victim of fraud, call the WA Police Service Major Fraud Investigation team on 9222 1111.
You should take reasonable precautions to ensure your personal safety, but it is also important for your wellbeing that you get out and about in your community. The WA Police Service will be able to advise you on security issues in your home and community. Call your local Police Station for advice. For the number for your nearest Police station, call 13 14 44.
| Bettie felt safe in her home. She had the place assessed by the local Crime Prevention Officer from the WA Police Service who had suggested a couple of changes to locks on doors and windows, and the owners had made the changes. When Bettie went out, she took reasonable precautions, like not taking short cuts through deserted areas, and when she went on fishing trips for a few days, she let her neighbours know and they kept an eye on her home and emptied the mailbox. |
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The Western Australian Seniors and the Law – information book was produced by the Office for Seniors Interests and Volunteering in partnership with the Law Society of WA. It aims to raise awareness about a range of issues and legal situations and provides links to services that can assist with further information on legal issues. A copy can be downloaded from www.osi.wa.gov.au
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Maintaining social links reduces isolation. The support of family, friends and community services can assist a person to retain control of their life and enhance their independence and wellbeing. These are important factors in protecting older people from mistreatment by someone they trust. Elder abuse is defined by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as:
A single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.
This definition includes:
- physical abuse;
- social abuse;
- psychological abuse;
- sexual abuse;
- material or financial abuse; and
- neglect.
Research shows that women are much more likely than men to experience elder abuse. Those 75 years or older are more likely to experience this abuse. Financial abuse is the most common type of elder abuse followed by psychological abuse and physical abuse The main perpetrators of elder abuse are adult children, spouse or de facto partners and relatives.
No one should endure abuse and there are agencies to help older people to be aware of their rights and to support them to maintain or regain control over their lives.
Advocare – Abuse Prevention Program will work in consultation with the older person, either directly or with their nominated representative. Call 9221 8599 or for country callers 1800 655 566 or go to www.advocare.org.au for further information.
The Public Advocate protects and promotes the rights of adults with a decision-making disability and reduces the risk of their abuse, exploitation and neglect. You can find out more about the services of the Public Advocate from the Department of Justice website at www.justice.wa.gov.au or call 9278 7300 or 1800 807 437 for country callers.
The WA Police Service Major Fraud Investigations team can provide you with assistance if you have been a victim of fraud even if this has involved someone you trusted. Call 9222 1111.
There are also a number of legal protections available to victims of elder abuse. Those at risk of violence can apply for a Violence Restraining Order or you can apply for a Misconduct Order to restrain those who are creating some form of nuisance. These orders are available through the Court of Petty Sessions. Call 9425 2398.
The Victim Support Service can provide older people with help with applying for a protection order. Call 9425 2850 or 1800 818 988 for country callers.
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