What Is Elder Abuse?
Published: 25 August 2026 | Last Updated: 25 August 2026
Noticing that something isn't right with an older person you care about is unsettling. Maybe a parent seems anxious about money they've always handled well. Maybe a family member has grown withdrawn, or someone new has taken a sudden interest in their finances. Elder abuse is hard to talk about, partly because it so often involves people the older person knows and trusts.
What elder abuse means
Elder abuse is any act, or failure to act, that causes harm to an older person within a relationship where there's an expectation of trust. That element of trust is what sets it apart. It's usually a family member, friend, or carer, rather than a stranger. It can be a single incident, or something that builds slowly over time.
What it might look like
Know what to look for can be tricky, because elder abuse isn't only physical. It shows up in several ways, and often more than one at once.
Financial abuse. Misusing an older person's money or assets. This might be pressuring them to hand over money, using a power of attorney for the wrong reasons, transferring property without proper consent, or quietly draining a bank account.
Psychological or emotional abuse. Threats, intimidation, humiliation, or controlling behaviour that leaves the person frightened or worn down.
Physical abuse. Causing physical harm or pain, or restraining someone without good reason.
Neglect. Failing to provide the food, shelter, medical care, or day-to-day support an older person relies on.
Social abuse. Cutting someone off from family, friends, or the outside world, which often makes other forms of abuse easier to hide.
Financial abuse is the form we see most often in our work, and it can be surprisingly hard to spot from the outside.
Noticing the warning signs
No single sign proves abuse is happening, but some things are worth paying attention to:
Unexplained withdrawals, new debts, or sudden changes to a will or power of attorney
Bills going unpaid, even though the person has enough money
A new person taking control of finances or decisions
Fear, anxiety, or unusual quietness around certain people
Missed medical appointments, or a decline in health or living conditions
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it's worth gently looking a little closer.
What to do if you're worried
You don't have to be certain, and you don't have to sort it out on your own. A few practical steps:
If someone is in immediate danger, call 000.
For advice, information, or to report a concern, contact the NSW Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline on 1800 628 221 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm). You can stay anonymous, and anyone can call.
The National Elder Abuse phone line is 1800 353 374 (1800 ELDERHelp).
Keep a quiet record of what you've noticed, including dates and details.
If the concern involves money, property, or how a power of attorney is being used, legal advice can help you understand the options.
Where we can help
Much of our elder law work is about prevention. We set up powers of attorney and enduring guardianship documents carefully, so the right people are chosen and sensible safeguards are in place. Where financial abuse may already have happened, we can help you understand what can be done, calmly and without judgement. These are sensitive conversations, and we treat them that way.
Raising a concern about someone you love is daunting. But older people have the right to feel safe, respected, and in control of their own lives, and taking that first step can make a real difference.
By Jessica Spence | Wills and Estates | Orange NSW
This article is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Your circumstances are unique, if you have questions about your situation, please get in touch for advice specific to you.