ELDER ABUSE

Although abuse of the elderly is not a female-specific problem, many more women survive into dependent old age than men and so this problem does actually affect many more women than men.

Lords' Debate

On 13 January 2011 the House of Lords debated Violence Against Women. Baroness Greengross said:

"I turn to older women. Figures were produced by Help the Aged some time ago, in 2004, which showed that 20% of elder abuse reported on its helpline was physical. Forty-four per cent of people calling the helpline reported more than one type of abuse occurring simultaneously. The vast majority - 67% - of people who reported violent abuse were women. The main recommendation following that report was that a comprehensive prevalence study was needed to establish the extent and impact of elder abuse throughout the UK. I could not find this report so I am not sure whether the prevalence study ever took place. I ask the Minister whether the Government have any plans to undertake a survey of this type or, if it has been done, to update the existing figures. This would help enormously, enabling us to eradicate a particularly disturbing form of violence."

A transcript of the full debate can be read at the link.

 

 

Age UK works to deal with abuse to vulnerable older adults. Visit their website for more information

 

Action on Elder Abuse (AEA) works to protect, and prevent the abuse of, vulnerable older adults. They were the first charity to address these problems and are the only charity in the UK and in Ireland working exclusively on the issue today. For more information on their work visit their website