OPAN launches survey on “Charter of Sexual Rights” to fight assaults in aged care
The campaign was launched in June to coincide with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day; more information is available on OPAN’s website
The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has launched a survey on a Charter of Sexual Rights in Residential Aged Care as part of its “Ready to Listen” campaign, which aims to reduce incidences of sexual assault in aged care. The survey, available online, is inviting older people, their friends and family, aged care service providers, and aged care advocates to give their thoughts on the Charter, which outlines 14 key rights and responsibilities for both residents and staff. According to OPAN, an estimated 50 sexual assaults take place in Australian residential aged care homes every week, with older people also being assaulted in their own homes; many survivors are also living with dementia.
“The trauma they experience is compounded by the lack of education for service providers. With limited knowledge about sexual assault, service providers do not fully understand the power they have to prevent sexual assault,” the organisation said.
The campaign was launched in June to coincide with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day; more information is available on OPAN’s website.
