The HSE 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 2009 as well as providing, for the first time, a detailed analysis of elder abuse referrals to the HSE.

Click on the link on this page to read or download the report.