More than any other group of people alive, older people have contributed the most to the development of this country.They have seen, and added to, the vast changes that have occurred. The country and its society is enriched - culturally, financially and spiritually - largely through the efforts of our older people. Thankfully, the majority of older people live full and active lives. By and large, as a group, they are held in high esteem by society. There is a general respect for our older population. Unfortunately, whether intentionally or not, a small number of our older population experience abuse.

The Health Service Executive has developed an elder abuse service in order to help prevent and combat elder abuse in all its forms. There are now specialist staff, employed by the HSE through the Local Health Offices, dealing with cases of elder abuse. Abuse can take a number of forms. The more identifiable forms include physical and sexual abuse. But other forms of abuse do happen, including financial abuse and neglect. All abuse is abhorrent and has no place in a civilised society.We must continue to help and support older people who are victims of abuse, and also challenge negative and stereotypical attitudes generated towards older people in general.

This document describes the main developments of the HSE's elder abuse service in 2008 as well as providing, for the first time, a detailed analysis of elder abuse referrals to the HSE.

Read or download the report on this page.