In this episode of The Meaning of Health, host Dorinda’t Hart is joined by Dr Catriona Turnbull from Edith Cowan University (ECU) as they return to the aged care series. Dr Turnbull discusses her work in the Social Ageing Futures Lab and introduces her current project, SOMA (Safety for Older Migrants Facing Mistreatment and Abuse). The conversation explores the intersection of older adult abuse and migration, the challenges faced by transnational families, the systemic and societal drivers of elder abuse, and the critical need to address ageism and social inequities.
Guest Information
Dr Cationa Turnbull is a sociologist and anthropologist working in the Social Ageing Futures Lab at Edith Cowan University. Specialising in the sociology of migration, transnational families, and older adult abuse, her research focuses on improving safety and care systems for older migrants in Australia.
Key Takeaways
High Prevalence & Low Recognition: Approximately 1 in 6 older adults globally and in Australia experience some form of abuse annually. Despite how widespread it is, elder abuse remains one of the least understood forms of family violence, and older adults themselves are often the least likely cohort to recognise mistreatment.
Root Causes & Systemic Solutions: Addressing elder abuse requires tackling broader societal pressures, such as cost-of-living stress and social inequities, rather than placing the burden of protection on older adults. Long-term solutions demand primary prevention, shifting public perception away from seeing ageing as a burden, and sustaining awareness year-round.
Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode
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