Jason knew something wasn’t right.
Jason’s parents had always been independent. They managed their own finances. They made their own decisions. They trusted the people around them.
When his father became unwell and his parents needed more support, someone they knew began helping with everyday tasks. At first, Jason was grateful. But over time, things started to change. Money seemed to disappear more quickly. His parents became uncertain about what they had agreed to. Important paperwork was difficult to find. When Jason asked questions, the answers didn’t quite add up.
His parents didn’t want to upset anyone. They believed the person helping them had good intentions. Jason wanted to respect their choices. But he also couldn’t ignore the feeling that something wasn’t right.
He didn’t have all the answers. But he trusted his instincts and started asking questions. Sometimes, that first conversation is what helps protect someone you love.
Because abuse and mistreatment of older people isn’t always obvious.
Sometimes it’s who you trust.
Jason's video
Some viewers may find these stories emotional or confronting. They are inspired by real lived experiences shared with Council on the Ageing Queensland. To protect the privacy and confidentiality of those involved, the people featured are digital representations rather than real individuals. Every story has been carefully de-identified while keeping the person’s experience at the heart of the story.
About Jason's story
Jason’s story explores how financial abuse and exploitation can happen when trust is taken advantage of.
Older people may rely on family members, friends or others for support with shopping, banking, appointments or everyday decisions. Most relationships are caring and respectful. But sometimes, that trust can be misused.
Jason’s story reminds us that financial abuse often develops gradually, making it difficult for older people and those around them to recognise what is happening.
In Jason’s story, the signs are subtle. They include:
unexpected changes in finances or spending.
missing money or personal belongings.
pressure to sign documents or make financial decisions.
difficulty accessing bank accounts or important paperwork.
reluctance to question someone providing support.
increasing dependence on one trusted person.
unexplained changes in legal or financial arrangements.
trusting your instincts when something doesn’t feel right.
Why this matters
Financial abuse is one of the most common forms of abuse and mistreatment of older people. It often happens gradually and is carried out by someone the older person knows and trusts.
Family members and friends may notice small changes long before they recognise a pattern.
Jason’s story reminds us that asking gentle questions, staying connected and seeking advice early can help protect the rights, choices and financial security of older people.
Find information and support
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger please call 000 for emergency services. For text-based emergency access (for hearing or speech impairment), call 106.
If these stories have raised concerns for you or someone you know, support is available. You don’t have to work it out alone.
Looking for legal support in your area?
Queensland has a network of community legal centres and legal support services that can provide advice on matters such as elder abuse, financial abuse, powers of attorney, guardianship and other legal issues.
Every story matters
Jason’s story is one of six stories in A Time to Listen, a Council on the Ageing Queensland storytelling project sharing experiences inspired by the lived experiences of older Queenslanders.
Sometimes, the people closest to us notice the first signs that something isn’t right.
Listening, asking questions and seeking support can help protect the people we care about.
Acknowledgements
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the older Queenslanders who generously shared their stories and experiences with us. Your courage, honesty and willingness to speak about difficult experiences have made this project possible and will help raise awareness of the abuse and mistreatment of older people across Queensland.
To protect privacy, the stories have been carefully de-identified and recreated using AI technology while remaining true to the experiences shared.
This series was produced by Red Hat Films in partnership with Council on the Ageing (COTA) Queensland.