The COVID-19 pandemic is causing untold fear and suffering for older people across the world. Beyond its immediate health impact, the pandemic is putting older people at greater risk of poverty, discrimination and isolation. It is likely to have a particularly devastating impact on older people in developing countries.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres
Today is Word Elder Abuse Awareness Day and over the last 18 months, as we have dealt with the impacts of Covid-19, we have seen many older people left more vulnerable than ever before.
Elder abuse can come in many forms – financial, emotional, physical to name just a few. It is important that we are all aware of what elder abuse is and what can be done to prevent and stop it.
Check out the HSE’s webpage for more details on what elder abuse is here: https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/4/olderpeople/elderabuse/what-is-elder-abuse-/
If you or someone you know is suffering from elder abuse, check out the HSE’s guide on how to report and check out the Garda info page for their resources.