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Seniors
The elderly in our community are one of our most vulnerable groups in relation to crime and abuse.
ACT Policing has a Seniors Liaison Officer dedicated to regularly engaging with members of the senior community to give them information and advice about how to protect themselves and stay safe.
Possible signs of elder abuse
Watch out for signs an elderly neighbour or family member may be suffering from elder abuse.
Unusual activity: such as more or less visits to the home and signs of anxiety after visitors.
Neglect: a usually well maintained home now looking rundown.
Finances: large financial hand-outs, money missing from their home, and elderly being pressured to make withdrawals.
Isolation: visitors are not welcome by other family members or carers.
Verbal: constant loud yelling/swearing.
Physical: unusual or re-occurring injuries.
I’m a victim of elder abuse, what do I do?
Call police on 131 444 if you are being abused or threatened.
- Ask police for a free home security assessment.
- Call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 to report suspicious activity. Information can be anonymous.
- Join Neighbourhood Watch to feel more connected and aware of crime in your area and talk to someone who isn’t known to your abuser.
Did you know?
- 75 to 85 per cent of those aged 65+ have experienced elder abuse including bullying, theft and denial of proper care.
- Elders are often too scared to report being scammed due to backlash from their family.
- 85 and over are the most vulnerable age group.
- Two out of three abused have experienced at least two prior incidents before the abuse is brought to someone’s attention
Types of elder abuse include:
- Financial
- Physical
- Sexual
- Psychological
- Verbal
Scams
Criminals often single out the elderly believing they are soft targets.
Scammers may call asking you to transfer money or buy large amounts of gift cards. End the conversation, do not call back. Scammers can stay on the line, so use a different phone to call a trusted adult or police.
Be aware of door knockers selling unnecessary maintenance work. Never let anyone inside your house, particularly if you did not request them to be there.
Too good to be true - you won’t become an instant millionaire because you received a letter, email or telephone call from a stranger out of the blue. Delete the email or hang up the phone - it’s a scam.
I’m worried about being scammed, what can I do?
Have a trusted person teach you about computer security and scams.
Educate yourself and know what the latest scams are by visiting Scamwatch.
If you have been scammed, report it using the ReportCyber portal or seek advice by visiting your local police station.