The alarm has been sung by President of the Dominica Council on Ageing (DCOA) Gloria Shillingford for a halt in the abuse of elderly citizens in Dominica.

Shillingford expressed that such abuse takes place both at home and at institutions where the seniors are cared for.

This is a very serious matter which needs urgent attention, says the president of DCOA, who this week demanded that more should be done to address the cases of elderly abuse. The head of the movement made these comments at a reception event for visiting representatives from organizations of Martinique who provide care for elders.

A leading advocate for the elderly, Tina Alexander also added her voice to that call. Alexander who also spoke at the event, called for “the attacks on the elderly” to end. She also called for a higher standard of care and a mode center of care for the elderly.

Elderly mistreatment is not unique to Dominica, as several nations around the world grapples with the problem. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that “15.7% of people above 60 years and older are subject to abuse.”

Elderly abuse could be a single or repeated act or the lack of appreciation. The breach of trust, distress and sexual abuse are among the most egregious acts of elderly abuse.