What Would You Do – Elder Abuse

Written 5 months ago by Angel Croitor

Tim Hanly spoke on Midlands Today about the many types of elder abuse experienced by some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

This abuse is manifested through many forms such as psychological, financial, physical, and neglect to name a few.

The National Safeguarding committee’s awareness campaign highlighted that of the 7,884 reports brought to the HSE’s attention 3,000 of them were related to reports involving people over 65 years of age.

‘But we know if it happens in the family it can be people quite close and that is quite difficult for old people to recognise as they may not see it as abuse and to respond to it or report it – it can be embarrassing or difficult.’

Will Faulkner delved deeper into the elements that lead to elder abuse and the difficulties of reporting such issues for our elders with Tim Hanly.

In an emergency, where the person is at immediate risk, you should contact the Garda Síochána or emergency services on 999 or 112. If you are concerned about a person you suspect might be a victim of elder abuse, tell someone. You can contact the HSE Elder Abuse Service, your GP, Public Health Nurse, local Health Centre or An Garda Siochana.

  • http://www.hse.ie/eng/safeguardingTeamsHSE Information Line
    Call Save: 1850 24 1850
    Website: http://www.hse.ie/safeguardingEmail: info@hse.ie
  •  The Senior Helpline is a national confidential telephone helpline for older people, provided by trained older volunteers. You can also contact the Senior Helpline at the number below:LoCall: 1850 440 444
    7 days a week, 10am –10pm
    Website: http://www.thirdageireland.ie/senior-helpline Email: info@thirdageireland.ie
  • For a full list of services available to those suffering from elder abuse, go to this page: http://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/4/olderpeople/elderabuse/Resources1/