The recent Federal Budget included funding to support the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children, including $25 million for innovative new initiatives to address the behaviour of perpetrators of violence. It remains an ongoing issue in Australia, and we need to do more to address it.  

Violence is not always easy to see and takes many forms – physical, sexual, emotional, financial, and psychological. It occurs across all cultures, communities and ages. In 95% of cases, whether experienced by a male or female, the perpetrator is male.  

Older people can face new challenges of violence due to a partner developing dementia. Their confusion or frustration can sometimes result in aggression, either verbal or physical. A change in behaviour could also arise from a physical condition such as an infection or pain which can’t be verbalised. It is important to see beyond the behaviour to what might be causing it. It should also not just be accepted as part of the disease.  

People will often suffer in silence because they’re afraid of losing someone or confronting them about the issue. It is so hard when the behaviour of someone you love changes and suddenly you are faced with a situation you have not encountered before. Violence in any form is not OK and it is important to reach out and seek help.  

If you are concerned about an older person and worried about raising the matter with them directly, discuss your concerns with a trusted individual, such as a doctor or service provider. Information, support and legal advice is available for those in need. In South Australia, elder abuse can be reported to the Adult Safeguarding Unit on 1800 372 310. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, there is also a 24-hour national helpline 1800 737 732. Don’t suffer in silence – the risk to your own personal safety is too great.  

As published in The Advertiser's Boomer lift-out on 14 November.