Workshops to Highlight Elder Abuse
Elder abuse continues to be a significant problem in Ireland, but one which is often hidden, Age Action has warned.
The charity has organised a series of workshops around the country to raise awareness of this serious issue among the general public. Issues covered will include warning signs to watch out for and the supports available to those affected.
"Research published last year by the National Centre for the Protection of Older People found that 10,200 older people had been abused in the previous 12 months and 18,700 older people had experienced elder abuse at some time since they turned 65," explained Age Action spokesperson, Eamon Timmins.
The free workshops take place in Cork, Galway and Kildare in early April.
Financial abuse was the largest category of abuse reported, followed by psychological abuse, physical abuse, neglect and sexual abuse.
"The workshops are being organised because, in Age Action's experience, not every older person or those who have contact with older people through social or voluntary groups, is aware of elder abuse or the possible warning signs of abuse. As a result, they may miss the opportunity to support an older person who is being abused," explained Mr Timmins.
The workshops are aimed at older people's groups and other community organisations that work with older people. The first one took place in Dublin this week, however, three more - in Kildare, Galway and Cork - are due to take place in the coming days.
"We need to get the message out that elder abuse is never acceptable, that doing nothing is not an option when you suspect that abuse is occurring and that older people who are being abused can turn to a dedicated, professional elder abuse service for support," Mr Timmins emphasised.
The workshops, which are free of charge, will take place in:
- The Carlton Abbey Hotel in Athy, Co Kildare, On April 1, from 1.45pm to 4pm
- The Croi na Gaillimhe Resource Centre, Mills Street, Galway, on April 4, from 9.15am to 11.30am
- The Imperial Hotel, South Mall in Cork, on April 8, from 1.45pm to 4pm.
Find Out More
If you are interested in attending any of the workshops, or are part of a group that might benefit from attending one, please contact Age Action to register. Pre-registration is necessary as each workshop is limited to 40 people.
To register, telephone (01) 475 6989, email info@ageaction.ie or write to Age Action, 30/31 Lower Camden Street, Dublin 2. Do not forget to state which workshop you want to attend if writing or emailing.
(source: Irishhealth.com)
