With your help we can end Elder Abuse in Pretoria!

Elderly abuse can be defined as any form of contact that harms an elderly person in any way. Elderly abuse is an under estimated problem in South Africa - elderly people hide it or prefer not to report it. It is estimated that only one in every fourteen cases of abuse is reported.

Who is the abuser? What does the person look like that abuses the elderly?

The elderly is mostly abused by a person with whom they have a close relationship - more often than not it includes a spouse, child, brother, sister or caregiver.

Types of abuse and how it can be identified

• Physical abuse - Any action that cause physical injury or discomfort.
• Sexual abuse - Any form of sexual contact or exposure without the consent and / or full knowledge of the elderly person.
• Financial abuse - Coercing money or attaining of assets without the full knowledge, consent or willingness of the elderly person.
• Psychological / emotional abuse - Any actions that leads to emotional anxiety or suffering by the elderly person.
• Neglect - The withholding of care and basic necessities for physical and emotional well being of the elderly person.

Why does the elderly accept abuse and not report?

• They are ashamed of what happened to them;
• They feel helpless and powerless and do not know what to do;
• They don't want to cause trouble for the offender that is frequently a family member;
• They frequently rely on the offender (financial, housing, care);
• Fear for institutionalising;
• Fear for consequences of disclosure; and
• Afraid of the offender.

What must I do if I suspect an elderly person is abused?

Contact a social worker: Reporting can by anonymous;

• Pretoria and surrounding areas: Pretoria Care for the Aged - 012 320 3577;
• Halt Elder Abuse Line (National): 0800 003 081; and
• Report to your local police station under the Domestic Violence Act.