The Peel Senior Relationship Service (PSRS) is now available for older people living the south-west of WA, and their families, to find solutions to elder abuse and ageing-related issues.
Earlier this year the Commonwealth Attorney Generals Department has funded the extension of the service to help support those living in some regional communities of WA. The service advocates and promotes the rights and interests of the elderly.
To raise awareness of this important free service, our PSRS team will be touring several locations in the south west to provide information and presentations to the local communities about the support they can access.
Tour Dates:
The PSRS helps seniors make informed decisions on a range of ageing-related issues and offers free case management and mediation for older people and their families.
The service helps facilitate difficult conversations and supports older people to plan for the future. It also can provide referrals for legal advice or any other issues that involve family conflict. You can attend the service on your own, with your partner, a carer or advocate, as a family, or your children or parents can come by themselves.
Since 2019 the service has supported more than 140 people – which include individuals, partners, carers and family members - to find solutions to ageing-related issues.
Program manager Charmaine Kennedy said the past year had been especially challenging for the service, as necessary lockdowns meant at times they could no longer offer face to face office or home consultations, and COVID-19 prevented them from seeing clients in aged care facilities.
“However, by utilising new technology, we have been able to overcome these barriers and offer significant assistance to the most vulnerable clients living in elder abuse situations,” she said.
“We now know we can offer the service in different and more efficient ways to be more accessible for everyone who needs support.”
What to do if you suspect Elder Abuse.
While elder abuse can be distressing, if you suspect someone may need support, ask about the person’s well-being – be quick to listen and don’t judge.
Take note of signs and symptoms that may help those who investigate and reassure the older person that there is help available and provide them with the contact details of a relevant support organisation.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 000.