Elder abuse reports ‘small drop in the ocean’ – AADA chair

Elder abuse is far more widespread than public reports suggest, with many cases hidden behind closed doors, according to Advocates Against Domestic Abuse (AADA) chairperson Barbara Daniel-Goddard.

She urged the authorities to establish a comprehensive support system to protect older victims once abusive relatives are removed from their homes.

Media reports represent only a fraction of the physical, financial and psychological abuse taking place, said Daniel-Goddard, noting that many cases emerged during her conversations with medical professionals, charities, people working with vulnerable communities and individuals who reached out to the AADA.