On Sunday 15 June 2025, we observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), a United Nations initiative aimed at highlighting the abuse and neglect faced by older individuals worldwide. This day serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to safeguard the rights and dignity of the elderly.
Understanding Elder Abuse
Elder abuse encompasses various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial. Financial abuse can be a concern when thinking about loved ones and planning for the future. This can involve the manipulation or coercion of elderly individuals to alter Wills, mismanagement of assets by appointed executors or attorneys, or undue influence leading to inequitable distribution of an estate.
The Role of Solicitors in Preventing Elder Abuse
As legal professionals, we play a crucial role in preventing elder abuse by:
- Ensuring Mental Capacity: Before drafting Wills, it's essential to assess the mental capacity of clients to ensure decisions they are making, and the instructions they are giving, are their own.
- Identifying Undue Influence: Being vigilant for signs of coercion or manipulation for example by family members or caregivers during the estate planning process.
- Promoting Transparency: Encouraging open discussions among family members about estate plans to reduce misunderstandings and potential conflicts.
- Regular Reviews: Advising clients to periodically review and update their Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney to reflect their current wishes and circumstances.
Supporting Victims of Elder Abuse
If you suspect that an elderly individual is a victim of abuse:
- Report Concerns: Contact local authorities or adult safeguarding services to report suspicions of abuse.
- Seek Legal Advice: Consult with a solicitor to explore legal remedies and protections.
- Access Support Services: Encourage the individual to connect with organisations that specialise in supporting victims of elder abuse.
John Hodge Solicitors: Committed to Protecting the Elderly
At John Hodge Solicitors, we are dedicated to upholding the rights and dignity of the elderly. Our team offers comprehensive and compassionate services ensuring that our clients' wishes are respected and that they are protected from potential abuse. We also have several members of the team who are accredited by the Association of Lifetime Lawyers (formerly Solicitors for the Elderly), a mark of specialist knowledge and proven dedication to helping older and vulnerable people make important life decisions with confidence.
Next Steps: Get in touch
If you would like to discuss your Will, estate planning, Lasting Powers of Attorney or potential abuse of an elderly relative, then please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of legal experts at John Hodge Solicitors. We have offices in Bridgwater, Bristol, Clevedon, Wedmore, Weston-super-Mare, and Yatton.
You can reach us via our website or by calling 0800 097 8611.
Sara Anthony
Emma Radford-Shayler
David Satchell
Natalie Tonkin
Isabel Harding-James
Kiranjeet Gharyal