BARP says elderly protection legislation overdue

The Barbados Association of Retired Persons (BARP) has called on the Government to introduce legislation to protect the elderly from various forms of abuse.
On Elder Abuse Day on Thursday, the association insisted that anyone who harms this country’s seniors in any way should feel the legal consequences of their action.
“It is only through legislation that standards of care can be instituted to prevent and combat elder abuse,” it said in a statement.
“BARP calls for criminal convictions and penalties to be attached to the intentional infliction of physical pain, injury, mental or emotional distress, fear, intimidation, unreasonable confinement, theft of their money and or property, and sexual abuse against an elderly or vulnerable individual. It is time that these various forms of abuse are documented, in the interest of our seniors’ safety and wellbeing; we need to accelerate the process.”
BARP also proposed education and training at the national level for those who care for seniors, so that they can operate at and maintain the legal standards.
According to the association, elder abuse has increased over the past three years.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has brought forth additional challenges and, regrettably, rates of elder abuse have seen a distressing increase if we are to believe anecdotal evidence and accept the concerns raised by our government, medical and social services professionals. The isolation, financial strains, and emotional toll caused by the pandemic have created an environment where older people are increasingly vulnerable to mistreatment. We cannot ignore the gravity of this issue and its potential consequences,” it said.
BARP noted that the authorities do not compile data on elder abuse, which it linked to the fact that elder abuse is not clearly identified by name and is still not criminalised, despite much talk about this being done.
“This is long overdue and has been discussed here for more than a decade. Seniors do not want any more talk; their silent suffering begs for action,” the association said.
It also urged the general public to help in the effort to raise awareness and nip the problem in the bud.
“BARP calls upon our society to stand united with us against elder abuse. We must remain vigilant and committed to combating elder abuse, we must continue to prioritise the safety, dignity, and well-being of our older population,” it said.
“This requires raising awareness, fostering supportive communities, and implementing effective safeguards to protect our elders from all forms of abuse. Let us come together as a compassionate society, actively engaging in conversations about elder abuse, and taking concrete actions to prevent it. Reach out to your elderly neighbours, friends, and family members. Stay connected, offer assistance, and report any concerns or instances of abuse,” the statement advised.
(PR/SZB)