Elder abuse is a crime - now let’s make it one.

Foreword

Elder abuse is a major problem across the World. In the UK alone between 500,000 and 800,000 older people are abused in their own homes each year.

Too many old people are suffering and dying, or losing their life savings due to abuse. Too many relatives are disgusted with the lack of justice, the lack of fairness, the lack of any deterrence.

This must stop.

The UK recognises the special needs of children for protection, the special needs of those who are victims of Hate Crime, the special needs of those who experience domestic abuse, and even the special needs of animals. But there is a point blank refusal to recognise the special needs of older people.

AEA hears arguments against the need to introduce specific legislation to prevent elder abuse, all of which are intended to avoid having the debate about the appalling treatment of too many of our older people, while perpetrators get away with their crimes.

The debate about the need for legislation to protect older people from abuse is long overdue.

(You can read the full report here)

Elder abuse is a crime. Now, let’s make it one.

Gary FitzGerald D.Sc. (h.c)., M.A

Chief Executive

Action on Elder Abuse