Four cafes in Gisborne threw their support behind World Elder Abuse Awareness Day with Stir a Cuppa events last week.
The Jolly Miller, 3 Little Pigs, Kaffeine Bar and Gisborne Bakery and Café backed the cause, encouraging people to meet or accompany the elder in their life – relative, neighbour, colleague or friend – for a cuppa.
The Jolly Miller launched the event with specially prepared WEAAD cakes, which were enjoyed by customers who purchased coffee on the day.
Sunbury FM radio’s breakfast show presenter Jack Harris emceed the morning, which was attended by special guests, founding chair of Senior Rights Victoria Janet Wood and Macedon Ranges councillor Rob Guthrie.
Macedon Ranges Shire Council also lit the Kyneton Town Hall purple to mark the day.
“It is important to raise awareness about elder abuse, to ensure older people are respected and included within each community,” said event coordinator Lynda Cameron.
“Elder abuse is everyone’s business and there is no excuse for it.”
Elder abuse is any act that causes harm to an older person and could be carried out by someone they know and trust such as a family member or friend.
The abuse may be physical, social, financial, psychological or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect.
Warning signs of elder abuse may include an older person seeming fearful, anxious or isolated. There may be injuries, or an absence of personal care. Unexplained changes to legal documents or finances are also of concern.
If you are experiencing elder abuse, or concerned about an older person, you can get help by calling Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821, Monday to Friday, from 10am to 5pm.
For more information, visit: seniorsrights.org.au or elderabuseawarenessday.org.au
