Violence is when someone does something that hurts or makes another person feel bad. Senior citizens are more likely to experience violence than younger generations.
Research shows that older people are more likely to experience violence than younger people.
One of the reasons is because older individuals often experience a great deal of social isolation. The isolation can be used against them, especially if the abuser is a caregiver or a family member. They might fear or are threatened that if they expose the abusers, they will be even more isolated.
You can talk online to 112 if you suspect that you are experiencing abuse.
A big change has taken place in recent years regarding how the police approach abuse cases. In the past, the perpetrators received more attention, but with an effort and education within the police, more attention has since been paid to the victims. A recent report published by the National Commissioner of Police's research department, paints a clear picture of the situation regarding abuse of the elderly, not least with view of the impact of the Coronavirus on the Icelandic community.
Authorities are currently working on various projects to combat abuse of the elderly. The aim is to better protect vulnerable groups of the elderly from abuse and to make it easier for them to get help.
Animation video that helps explain the different types of elder abuse. What is elder abuse?
Ólafur is a modest man in his eighties who lives in his own home. One of his grandchildren, Hrafnhildur, often helps him with things that are difficult for him, such as going to the store and paying bills. Ólafur gave Hrafnhildur access to his online bank for this purpose.
A few months later when Ólafur was going to buy himself a new sofa it turned out that Hrafnhildur had regularly transferred money from his account to hers. He does not believe that she has been stealing but when he asks her about this she says she thinks she deserves this and will not pay him back.
