Elder Abuse and People From An Aboriginal Background

Anecdotal evidence suggests abuse of older Aboriginal people is on the increase. Risk factors such as the rising prevalence of substance misuse across Aboriginal communities and poor social and emotional wellbeing have meant that the actions young Aboriginal people may often be the cause of harm, mistreatment and elder abuse. Financial abuse is most commonly reported, and is linked to issues such as entrenched poverty, substance abuse, and breakdown of strong family structures. More risk factors are listed below.