Elder Abuse: Know the Signs and How to Report it
Age is just a number, abuse is a crime. Stand against Elder Abuse and speak up for those who can't.
According to the World Health Organization, around 1 in 6 older adults experience some form of abuse yearly.
Elder abuse is a serious issue in Ireland, affecting many vulnerable older people. According to the HSE, elder abuse refers to "a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person." This can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect.
Physical abuse involves using force that causes injury or pain to an older adult. This can include hitting, slapping, kicking, or pushing. Emotional abuse involves the use of verbal or nonverbal behaviour that causes emotional pain or distress, such as yelling, insulting, or humiliating. Sexual abuse involves any unwanted sexual contact or behaviour towards an older adult. Financial abuse involves the misuse or theft of an older adult's money or property. Neglect involves the failure to provide basic needs such as food, water, shelter, or medical care. Abandonment involves deserting an older adult in need of care.
Unfortunately, elder abuse is often underreported and can be difficult to detect as it may be mistaken for signs of ageing or illness. Common signs include bruises, cuts, or other unexplained injuries; sudden changes in behaviour or mood; withdrawal from activities or social interaction; unexplained financial transactions or missing assets; and poor hygiene or physical condition.
Many older people may be reluctant to come forward or may not even be aware that they are being abused. In addition, caregivers or family members may be the perpetrators of the abuse, making it even harder to address. This abuse can occur in various settings, including the home, community, and care institutions.
The Irish government has taken steps to address elder abuse, including establishing the National Safeguarding Committee and the publication of the National Adult Safeguarding Policy. These initiatives aim to raise awareness of elder abuse, support victims and hold perpetrators accountable. However, more must be done to prevent and address elder abuse in Ireland. This includes increasing funding for elder abuse services, improving training for healthcare professionals and caregivers, and continuing to raise awareness of the issue.
It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the signs of elder abuse and to report any suspicions to the appropriate authorities. This can include local law enforcement, adult protective services, or a healthcare provider. Older adults experiencing abuse may also benefit from counselling or support services.
Elder abuse is a serious problem in Ireland that requires a coordinated response from the government, healthcare professionals, caregivers, and the wider community. By working together, we can ensure that older people are treated with respect and dignity and are protected from harm.
Open Your Eyes by the HSE is an excellent information booklet on how to protect yourself from Elder Abuse. Click here to download it.
Important Contact Information
If you are concerned about a suspected case of elder abuse, please call the HSE helpline on 1850 24 1850 (Monday to Saturday – 8am to 8pm).
If there is an immediate and serious risk of harm to a person, call the Gardaí at 999 or 112.
If the issue is serious but not urgent, please contact your local Garda station. Also, a list of all Garda stations in the country is available at www.garda.ie.
If confidentiality is an issue – you can phone the Garda confidential line at 1800 666 111.
There are also many national and local representative and support service organisations in the health, social, disability, financial services and ageing sectors. They do not have powers to investigate safeguarding concerns such as the Gardai or National Safeguarding Office, but they may be able to support you with information and advice. Suggested organisations include:
Age Action: https://www.ageaction.ie
Age Friendly Ireland: https://agefriendlyireland.ie
Alzheimer Society of Ireland: https://alzheimer.ie
Disability Federation of Ireland: https://www.disability-federation.ie
Free Legal Advice Centres: https://www.flac.ie
Inclusion Ireland: http://www.inclusionireland.ie
Irish Hospice Foundation: https://hospicefoundation.ie
Also useful
Commission for Regulation of Utilities: https://www.cru.ie/need-assistance/vulnerable-customers/
Vulnerable customers register (Electric Ireland form): https://www.electricireland.ie/docs/roi-residential-footer—customers-with-special-needs/2615_ei_vulnerable_cust_reg_form_a4_cofovc0518_v5.pdf?sfvrsn=9e47be0d_12
Sage Advocacy
Sage Advocacy is a national charity providing support and advocacy services for older people, vulnerable adults and healthcare patients. Sage Advocacy will always stand up for the individual’s rights, respect their dignity and make sure their voice is heard – it works on the individual’s behalf, independent of family, to make sure that decisions are not taken without a person’s agreement. Sage Advocacy can provide immediate advice on a wide range of issues, from rights to making choices, care and support. Call: (01) 536 7330 or 1850 71 94 00 or email: 1850@sageadvocacy.ie
National Advocacy Service
The National Advocacy Service provides an independent representative advocacy service for adults with disabilities; contact 0761 07 3000.