Age Cymru highlights the importance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

We join with partners from across the United Kingdom and the world to raise awareness of the abuse of older people. In a stark reminder, research has shown that last year 1 in 6 older people suffered a form of abuse and with as many as two out of three older people who are living with dementia being abused. 

Abuse can come in many forms and older people deserve to be treated with dignity and respect as does everyone in society.  Age Cymru has produced a factsheet which can be accessed through our website: www.ageuk.org.uk/cymru/information-advice/health-wellbeing/relationships-family/protection-from-abuse/ This factsheet includes background information on the abuse of older people and the different types of abuse that people can face.  

If an individual feels that they are experiencing abuse they should contact their local authority for the social services department, speak to a person that they trust or a GP or other health professional.  

The charity Hourglass run a national 24-hour helpline: 0808 808 8141.  

Chief executive, Victoria Lloyd says “We come together on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day to tackle the injustice that older people face abuse. This isn’t tolerated in society, and we need to work together as a society to eradicate it.  

“We urge people to be aware of the signs of abuse in older people and speak up where they can. Age Cymru Advice is here to help if people need advice or information about this.” 

For information on this and other matters you can contact Age Cymru Advice on 0300 303 44 98 between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday, or email advice@agecymru.org.uk. You can also visit the charity’s website: www.agecymru.org.uk/advice  

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