Elder Abuse: The Hidden Harm in South Canterbury Families

Elder abuse remains a serious but often hidden issue in South Canterbury. Behind closed doors, many older people are mistreated by the very people they trust most — their own families. From Twizel to Timaru, community groups, caregivers and services are seeing first-hand how financial, emotional, and physical abuse impacts vulnerable older adults.

Three out of four abusers are family members, and around one in ten older people experience abuse — often in silence. For many victims, fear of conflict, shame, or loyalty to their family stops them from speaking out.

Locally, Age Concern Canterbury operates a dedicated Elder Abuse Response Service (EARS) providing confidential support, advice and education. The Elder abuse worker, Sarah Hendry reports that often financial abuse might start out as small, for example using a bank card for the odd personal item, when making a purchase on behalf of the older person, which over time can escalate, leading to significant financial abuse to those they were trying to support. Often it begins with genuine generosity — a place to stay, a small loan, or helping with bills — but over time the support becomes expected, or even demanded, or carried out in secret, leaving the older person financially stretched or emotionally manipulated.”

Across New Zealand, Age Concern was involved in 2817 cases of elder abuse from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. Of those allegedly causing the harm, 88% were family members, of which 50% were adult children or grandchildren.

Financial and psychological abuse are frequently those closest to the victim, most often family. For example, older people may cover rent, education costs, medical bills or lend vehicles — often with no intention for repayment. Over time, savings are drained, and when it comes to their own needs — such as medical care, glasses, hearing aids, or even basic groceries — there may be little left. Misuse of bank cards, failure to contribute to household costs, and pressuring elders into financial decisions they cannot afford are all forms of abuse, even when no crime is technically committed. Over the past 12 months, with the rise in living expenses, we are seeing an increased number of financial abuse incidents occurring within our community.

“Financial abuse is something we’re seeing far too often,” says Sarah Hendry. “For many older people, it’s incredibly upsetting because it involves family members — people they care about and trust. When situations become difficult, we’re able to offer confidential support and help families work through these challenges.”

Age Concern’s simple but powerful message. You have the right to decide how to spend your money. You should not have to go without because those you love are of the demands of others.

Free brochures are available at Age Concern South Canterbury or Online.

If you suspect elder abuse, act. Call Age Concern on 03 687 7372, or the National Helpline on 0800 32 66865 Help is free, confidential, and could make all the difference.

Chris Thomas

Manager, Age Concern South Canterbury