Elderly abused at hands of family

One in ten elderly people suffer abuse, often by family members and people who they trust.

Although abuse can be physical, other forms of abuse such as financial, psychological, physical and sexual mistreatment is equally as harmful.

In one case an elderly woman was tricked into selling her home by her daughter. Another case discussed an elderly woman who had been physically and sexually abused by her son.

The elderly are one of the most vulnerable sections of society and are often unable to defend themselves.

These shocking revelations were part of a heart-rending presentation was delivered by Seamus Lynch of Help the Aged at the Coleraine Borough Council meeting on Tuesday evening. [Nov, 6].

Lynch said: “The time has come for us as a community to do something about it.”

Help the Aged gained full support of Coleraine Borough Council in their campaign against abuse of the elderly.

Cllr Barney Fitzpatrick, from the Alliance party, raised the case of a 78-year-old Coleraine woman whose family had difficulty obtaining secure accommodation for her in her hometown. She was forced to move to Derry, miles away from her disabled husband who now has to travel in order to see her. Lynch told the meeting that similar situations are widespread across the Province.

Cllr John Dallat, SDLP, acknowledged there should be a change in the attitude many people have towards the elderly. He assured his support for the campaign: “I think we as a council should put into operation our contribution to achieve better care for the elderly.”

Lynch said that the charity wants to raise awareness of the problem and give victims of abuse the courage to report abuse.

He suggested that the council start to show older people they care about them. He stated: “It is confident building measures that are required. If we can show that the council care, the elderly will want to report.”

He asked that councillors do this by addressing the issue of abuse in party literature and showing the elderly that there is support for them within the community.

Alderman David McClarty, UUP, proposed a motion highlighting the issues affecting elderly people. He said: "We have a duty to the elderly, to protect them and enhance what is left of their lives. We should afford them the dignity they deserve."
The meeting agreed unanimously to support McClarty’s motion and the “We Will” campaign. The councillors agreed to raise awareness within the community and to provide support for anyone who comes forward to report an incident.