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Download AudioAge Concern says the stresses of the pandemic have caused an increase in elder abuse,
Chief executive Kevin Lamb says one in 10 New Zealanders aged over 65 will experience some form of physical or mental abuse – and in four cases out of five it’s at the hands of family members.
He says some adult children or grandchildren see older relatives as a way to top up their own finances, and that seems to be increasing as the cost of living rises.
It’s a problem across society.
No community group appears to be any better or worse than other so sadly for Maori we have a lot of clients coming through are who are experiencing abuse and neglect, and the same for everyone else, It really doesn’t show respect for culture or ethnicity,” Mr Lamb says.
Anyone suffering or witnessing elder abuse can ring Age Concern’s confidential helpline on 0800 65 2 105.
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