Going purple in support of our elderly
Published on 15 June 2015
Iconic Mildura landmarks will turn a shade of purple this week as a show of support for our elderly residents.
Purple is the colour used to symbolise World Elder Abuse Awareness Day which was commemorated internationally on 15 June, with local events being held on Thursday 18 and Friday 19 June to promote respect and dignity for our older residents.
Around Australia public buildings including Parliament House, the Melbourne GPO, Bendigo Post Office and Frankston Arts Centre will be illuminated in purple. Locally our own Carnegie Library, Rio Vista Historical House, the Alfred Deakin Centre and the Grand Hotel are joining the cause and being lit purple on Thursday evening.
Mildura Rural City Council’s Community Wellbeing and Services portfolio Councillor Sharyon Peart said Seniors Rights Victoria statistics show elder abuse affecting between 4-6% of older people, making the issue one which needs more public attention.
“Elder Abuse can take on many different forms,” Cr Peart explained. “It may involve taking someone’s money or possessions, not providing necessary care, making threats or stopping an older person’s social contacts. There are also instances of physical or sexual abuse as well.
“One of the saddest facts is that the abuse is carried out by someone in a position of trust, such as family members or friends.”
An Elder Abuse Awareness Expo will also be held in the Langtree Mall on Friday 19 June from 11am, with support service provides available to discuss this often hidden tragedy. The Twilighters, a choir from the Mildura Senior Citizens Club, will also be on hand to provide a little light entertainment and to help raise awareness.
“Older people don’t have to put up with abuse and have the right to live with dignity and safety,” said Cr Peart.
“As our population ages, the number of people affected will increase, so it’s more important than ever that we raise awareness of elder abuse and challenge negative attitudes towards ageing.”
Council’s Aged and Disability staff are also encouraging everyone in the community to wear something purple on Friday to highlight this important social issue.
“We really want to get the message out there and encourage people to report instances of Elder Abuse to the appropriate authorities,” said Cr Peart. “Often the people who are subject to abuse are vulnerable and may not be in a position to speak up for themselves, but there is help available.”
More information about Elder Abuse is available from http://www.seniorsrights.org.au or by contacting Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821.
ENDS
Media enquiries
Angela Umback
p) (03) 5018 8689
e) angela.umback@mildura.vic.gov