A study on elder abuse has found that the Irish health system and State agencies overly concentrate on the psychological and safety needs of older people.

The health system and State agencies overly concentrate on the psychological and safety needs of older people, rather than developing and implementing prevention measures, according to a major new all-Ireland report on elder abuse.

It finds that older people have a very different understanding of elder abuse, than what is presented in terms of prevention at national policy level.

The report says that society characterises older people as 'others' rather than full members of society and that older people see elder abuse, not as a stand-alone event, but a subtle, gradual process that usually involves an element of psychological pressure.

Along with a decline in health, this brings about a loss of control over their lives and places them in a vulnerable position, dehumanises them and makes it easier for others to mistreat or harm them.

The report 'A total indifference to our Dignity' says older people believe their views, past experiences and future desires are dismissed and regarded as of no significance to families, the State, its agencies and society in general.

Some of those interviewed said there was a gradual withdrawal of respect and recognition as people age and society takes away rights and responsibilities, self-awareness and decision-making.

The researchers found there was a lot of psychological pressure on older people.

They fear that saying 'no' to requests may have significant negative repercussions on their well-being and safety.

The study was funded by the Centre for Ageing Research and Development in Ireland and produced by Age Action Ireland, with the support of others.

The report also says older people's dread of going into nursing homes is such that many would see abuse by their family as more acceptable.

http://www.rte.ie/news/2011/0613/health.html