New videos and awareness events highlight loneliness as key vulnerability factor, with over 800 cases reported in region last year
HSE South West has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Sunday, June 15, focusing on the critical link between loneliness and vulnerability to abuse amongst older people in the region.
The campaign, themed “Loneliness – Connection is Protection”, comes as new figures reveal 811 concerns of elder abuse were reported to the HSE South West Safeguarding and Protection Team in 2024. Emotional abuse was the primary concern, accounting for 487 of the reported cases, with many incidents involving multiple types of abuse.
Miriam Tobin, Principal Social Worker, Safeguarding and Protection Team HSE South West said:
“There is nothing more lonely or terrifying than feeling unheard. An older person who had a large circle of friends, a fulfilling career, or a wide range of exciting hobbies may feel embarrassed, or may find it difficult, to talk about feeling lonely as they get older.
“The most common issue we are told about is the older person ‘not being listened to’. People can experience loneliness if they don’t feel understood or valued by the people around them. Stop, take the time to listen properly, and do what you can to help our elders live out their best lives, in safety and comfort. Being there to listen and reassure, creating a safe space to connect, can make the world of difference to how a loved one feels.”
A series of safeguarding awareness videos has been launched on the HSE South West YouTube channel, covering key topics including an introduction to safeguarding using sign language, how to recognise abuse, how to report concerns, and encouraging older people to stay connected.
Cork City Council and Kerry County Council are supporting the campaign by illuminating their buildings purple on June 15, the official colour associated with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
The campaign emphasises that loneliness can affect anyone, regardless of their support network, and can lead to increased emotional, physical, and financial vulnerability. Abuse can occur in various settings, including the person’s home, hospitals, residential homes, or day centres, and may be deliberate or result from neglect or lack of knowledge.
Types of elder abuse include emotional abuse such as bullying and threats, neglect of basic health needs, physical abuse, financial exploitation including online scams, and sexual abuse. The HSE warns that abuse can be deliberate or unintentional, caused by lack of knowledge or through neglect.
Anyone concerned about elder abuse can contact the HSE South West Safeguarding Team on 021 4927550 or Freephone 1800 225 500 between 9am-1pm and 2pm-4pm, Monday to Friday. Additional resources are available at www.hse.ie/safeguarding, including short films about elder abuse and a comprehensive information booklet.