YOU can be the one to make a difference in the prevention of elder abuse.

This was the suggestion, nay, the obligation proposed by Community Services Minister Karen Struthers yesterday at the Gold Coast launch of next Wednesday's World Elder Abuse Awareness Day at the Burleigh Heads Surf Life Saving Club.

Eighty-three mostly female elderly Gold Coasters were abused either financially, physically, psychologically or through neglect from July last year to April, according to Lifeline Elder Abuse Prevention Unit figures.

Burleigh MP Christine Smith said as our community aged it became more important elder abuse was discussed publicly.

“Sadly, some people continue to exploit some of the most vulnerable people in our community,” she said.

Ms Struthers glanced at the view of surfers straddling Burleigh Point and said for such a beautiful area to have such a disturbing problem, it was a contrast.

“This community has a very active elderly community, but also one which suffers abuse,” she said.

“A lot of women have grown up with the very stoic mindset not to let anyone know about private family issues.”

Contact Ms Smith on 0408 729 164 for information about World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

If you are aware of or experiencing abuse, call Lifeline's Elder Abuse Prevention Unit toll free on 1300 651 192.