Olivia is 86 years old and has dementia. Two years ago, Olivia moved in with her son, Tommy, his wife, Sarah and their two children. Olivia speaks English well but it is her second language and at times she reverts to Italian.

Tommy has Enduring Guardianship and Enduring Power of Attorney.

Sarah is in receipt of the carer's payment and in the past, Tommy has been reluctant to accept aged-care community services for his mother so support is minimal. However, they do allow Olivia to go to respite care at ARC Gardens twice a month for a weekend.

Over time, Olivia has told workers that Sarah screams at her and Olivia keeps pointing to her head saying there is a lump. Olivia's clothes are dirty and Olivia appears to be losing weight.

When you pick Olivia up to take her to respite care you notice that the house is very untidy with bills piled on the table. Sarah tells workers she is coping well, although Olivia had been admitted to hospital a couple of times for falls.

You have called a meeting to review Olivia's situation. You are the care worker for 86 year old Olivia. Your trainer and classmate will play the role of your supervisor and a family member.

You will need to reviewARC Gardens' policies and proceduresas well as the legal requirements for your state:

NSW:https://www.ageingdisabilitycommission.nsw.gov.au/information-for-professionals/downloadable-toolkits-and-flyers/elder-abuse-prevention-toolkit(Links to an external site.)

QLD:https://www.qld.gov.au/seniors/safety-protection/discrimination-abuse/elder-abuse/info-health-professionals

Before you act out this scenario answer the following questions in preparation:

Q1 In preparing for the meeting list the topics you plan to discuss during the interaction

Q2 List at least five (5) questions you will ask during this interaction.

Q3 What are the types of abuse that you suspect are occurring in this situation and the indicator of each? (Include in your discussions)

Q4 You are to explain to the others involved in the interaction what options are available to improve the situation? The other members should offer their views.

Q5 Explain and include in your discussions the legal and organisational requirements that you have in this situation.