A ‘Kindness to Elders’ event was held in Macedon for World Elder Abuse Awareness day, brought together by the efforts of several local groups and esteemed Macedon Ranges locals.
The event, held at Jubilee Hall, included speeches from Athol Guy, Janet Wood, and Jack Harris, who all told stories about their lives.
Scouts and guides from Gisborne, Romsey, New Gisborne, and Lancefield set up, decorated, packed up, and provided lunch at the venue.
Macedon Ranges Kindness to Elders organiser Lynda McClure said that she believes advocacy events play an important role in achieving change.
“They connect a community, make them think about the matter at hand, and with the swell of awareness … eventually bring change to that community,” Ms McClure said.
“Councils and politicians also become involved as the swell gains momentum, leading to better outcomes for all.”
Ms McClure said that the event will help older people to “gain the confidence to speak up and voice their concerns” in relation to elder abuse.
“With a rapidly aging population this sector of the community can become one of the strongest of voices,” she said.
Ms McClure said highlights of the event for her included Wood’s speech about love towards grandparents, Guy telling an early memory of standing on docks waiting for his father to return from war, and Cook’s performance of his hit song ‘Heart’.
Ms McClure said that people can advocate for elder safety by “calling about” mistreatment towards elders in family and workplace settings, and to stay attentive to signs of distress from older people, which could be a result of abuse.
If you or anyone you know needs support, please call the confidential helpline on 1300 368 821 or visit Seniors Rights Victoria for more information: www.seniorsrights.org.au
Oscar Parry
