Elder abuse

One in twenty elderly is at some point confronted with some form of abuse. In many cases of elder abuse it concerns care that went wrong. Overburdening, powerlessness and lack of appreciation for the caring partner, daughter, neighbour or care provider may lead to abuse. In these cases, there often is no question of ill intent. There are, however, also people who knowingly abuse elderly people. It concerns for example financial exploitation, physical, psychological or sexual abuse.

Many elderly do not like to come out with their story out of shame or fear. There are nevertheless many signs that may indicate elder abuse. For example when the elderly person makes a depressed, anxious impression or makes contradictory statements. Another sign may be that the elderly person or the household makes an uncared-for impression or when things disappear from the house. When the elderly person does not have the opportunity to talk in private or refuses help, this may also be a sign. Are you worried about an elderly person in Delft, Westland, Midden-Delfland or Pijnacker-Nootdorp, call Meldpunt Bezorgd?: 0900 – 040 0405 (local rate). You may remain anonymous if desired. Meldpunt Bezorgd? listens, notes down your report, advises, thinks along and provides help where needed.