No age limit: older people and domestic abuse
Age UK publishes report
Age UK has published a report calling on the Government "to make sure the voices of older people are heard, their rights are protected, and their needs included in future legislation addressing domestic abuse".
Age UK says that whilst people of any age can be affected by domestic abuse, older people can be particularly vulnerable to certain forms of domestic abuse, including abuse by a carer and financial abuse. Older people can face significant barriers in leaving abusive situations. These barriers can be severe for survivors who have been subject to years of abuse, are experiencing long term health conditions or disabilities, or those who rely on their abuser for their care or money.
The charity seeks the following changes:
- The definition of domestic abuse must include abuse by carers including friends and neighbours, as well as family members.
- There should be training for health care practitioners, including GPs and practice nurses, who work with older people, particularly during hospital admission and discharge.
- Data on domestic abuse must be gathered for all ages, not just people aged 74 and under.
- Better links between the NHS and police are needed to make sure older victims of abuse are properly protected and supported.
For the report, click here.
6/10/19
- Keywords:
- domestic abuse