Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued as they age. Age Concern works alongside older people, whānau/family, and communities to prevent and respond to elder abuse and neglect.
Elder abuse happens in relationships of trust and can be difficult to recognise or talk about. Age Concern is committed to bringing it into the light and ensuring older people know they are not alone, and that help is available.
Our approach
Age Concern takes a compassionate, mana‑enhancing approach that centres the rights, dignity, and wishes of older people. We believe that safety and wellbeing are strongest when people are listened to, respected, and supported to make their own decisions.
Our work is grounded in trust, understanding, and long‑term relationships with local communities.
How we help
Confidential support and advocacy
We provide a trusted person for older people or their whānau/family member experiencing abuse or neglect to talk about what’s happening. Our trained staff listen without judgement and work alongside people to explore options and next steps, at a pace that feels right for them.
There is a free, confidential 24-hour national helpline to you can call for support or to have a conversation about Elder Abuse Response Service | Te Tari Kaumātua.
Prevention and early intervention
We focus strongly on prevention by promoting awareness of elder abuse and neglect, strengthening protective factors, and encouraging respected relationships across generations.
Community and business education
Through workshops, resources, and consultation we help communities and businesses recognise the signs of elder abuse, understand its impacts, and know how to respond safely and appropriately.
See below for downloadable resources to provide information and support conversations about prevention and what our elder abuse services provide.
Working together
We collaborate with whānau/family, community organisations, health and social services, agencies, and businesses to help older people stay safe and supported. Addressing elder abuse is a shared responsibility.
Take the step. You’re not alone
Elder abuse and neglect are never okay, but they are preventable. Speaking up, asking for help, or checking in on someone can make a powerful difference. Whether you are an older person, a whānau/family member, friend, neighbour, or professional, we are here to support you.
Interested in this service?
Age Concern has response teams across Aotearoa New Zealand. Last year, we supported over 3,000 older New Zealanders address and stop abuse. In 69% of these cases, abuse continued for more than three months, and in 38%, abuse kept happening for more than a year.
Whatever people’s circumstances or community, response is a call away. New Zealanders are taking the step and seeking support, and last year 13% of our cases were reported by the people experiencing abuse and 21% from family, friends, or community groups. There are several places to get support, and the important thing is to take the step and know you’re not alone.
Last year, with Age Concerns’ support these people took positive steps to change their lives.
