Eventide Homes' human resources coordinator Rebecca Farrell said the topic is something the staff is trained in constantly.

"Our facility strives to provide the best training and development for staff possible," she said.

"Within our training, we already have a compulsory training component on elderly abuse.

"After discussions around World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, we are looking to take the next step and to have a stronger focus on the topic within the community."

Mrs Farrell said steps will be taken to promote where people can go for help or support within the community.

"There are many places in Stawell where people can go," she said. "We strongly believe in the development of our staff and also members of the wider community on this topic. There are so many little signs people could be on the lookout for and it's ok if you want to bring any concerns to someone's attention.

"Part of the initiative will be to open channels of communication and engagement."

Elder abuse is stated as any act which causes harm to an older person and is carried out by someone they know and trust such as a family member or friend. The abuse may be physical, social, financial, psychological or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect.

Mrs Farrell said within the older community it is seen as a "taboo" thing to talk about what happens behind closed doors.

"I guess it's getting people to know that it is ok to ask questions," she said. "It can be as simple as a hello and open up communication to ask about something you may have noticed which has changed within their lives. I believe most elderly people wouldn't mind people checking in with them. It will also help with isolation they may be feeling."

Stawell organisations hosted an awareness morning tea on Friday while a forum highlighting the extent of the issue in the community will be on Thursday, June 18 in Ararat.

A panel discussion will feature special guests including Grampians Community Health's people and community support general manager Kathy Day.

To attend the elder abuse forum in Ararat, residents need to contact Louise Feery on 5338 4518 at Ballarat Community Health.

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