Over 1,000 cases of abuse on elderly persons have been reported between 2010 and 2014, some of which in residential homes.

Following the arraignment of a 42-year-old nursing aide being charged with slapping a 92-year-old resident at St Vincent De Paul, Parliamentary Secretary Justyne Caruana held a press conference to stress that the government has zero tolerance on abuse of elderly people.

“This particular case received a lot of media attention, but the unfortunate reality is that these cases happen frequently, even if not reported publicly,” Mrs Caruana said.

She explained that in the past two years, the secretariat has implemented a number of measures to ensure that such cases are reported and dealt with adequately, including the setting up of specialised units within homes. Elderly people can also make use of a Freephone number to report such cases.

The parliamentary secretary said that although the legislative structure is in place, there needs to be more enforcement and awareness. Members of the police force are visiting day centres and homes for the elderly, educating them about abuse.

“Abuse can be physical, verbal and even financial. At times, elderly people are not even aware that they are being abused. Irrelevant of how minor the case is, all abuse should be reported,” she stressed.

She said that relatives are not excluded from being the perpetrators of such abuse, adding that it is each individual’s responsibility to protect and care for their elderly parents and other relatives.

Government homes are undergoing structural and operational changes to ensure more monitoring of staff and prevention of abuse.

“Let us remember that there are people who work with the elderly who are highly dedicated and responsible. Unfortunately, the rotten apples get the most attention,” she said.

Cases reported

 2010 – 184

2011 – 179

2012 – 266

2013 - 225

2014 - 196