Soroptimist International of Barbados’ immediate past president, Ramona Smart is calling for more to be done to stop elderly abuse.
During a day of activities hosted by the club at the Hildegarde Weekes Activity Centre on Wednesday, in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, she said the incidence of abuse of senior citizens – reported and unreported – continued to be uncomfortably high.
“It is disturbing that persons take the opportunity to abuse our elderly financially, physically, socially, and even sexually. It is horrible that it is something that happens. I know that there have been reported cases, but there are many instances where the elderly refuse to speak out because they are afraid of any repercussions,” Smart said.
She also expressed concern that many senior citizens who suffered from dementia were not diagnosed and, as a result, family members saw them as being difficult.
“There are instances where our elderly may be affected by early dementia and other diseases that affect their memory…. They are not being bad, disrespectful, or anything like that, it’s just that we need to understand what they are going through and to learn how to deal with it.
“The Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, through the National Assistance Board, provides assistance to the elderly with home help, and those persons assist the elderly with their day-to-day care. That is a very important service that is being provided that persons can tap into,” Smart said.
Noting the priceless contribution Barbados’ elderly would have made to the upliftment of the country, including as nurses, educators, and workers within social and labour services, it was important to take care of them in their later years.
“It is important that persons recognise just how important the elderly are to us and what they have done to bring our country and our nation to where it is today, and stop any abuse or mistreatment of the elderly,” Smart insisted. (SB)
