Jamaica Urged To Strengthen Protection For Elderly Abuse Victims

A 2018 Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica exposé raised concern that older Jamaicans remain vulnerable to abuse, neglect and exploitation, even as senior citizens account for 12.6 per cent of the population. The programme said many cases are never reported, with some abuse allegedly carried out by relatives, caregivers, friends and spouses.

The report described elder abuse as physical, emotional, psychological, verbal, sexual, discriminatory and financial mistreatment, as well as neglect. It highlighted the risk faced by persons who are very old, frail, isolated, disabled or dependent on others for daily care.

Speakers in the programme said Jamaica had no law dealing specifically with elder abuse. Instead, suspected offenders may be pursued under general laws such as the Offences Against the Person Act or the Sexual Offences Act, depending on the allegation. Advocates called for protections similar to child-care legislation, including penalties where suspected abuse is known but not reported.

The programme said a revised senior citizens policy Green Paper had been tabled by then Labour and Social Security Minister Shahine Robinson, with proposals to strengthen safeguards for older people. Reports, the exposé said, could be made to the National Council for Senior Citizens, the nearest Ministry of Labour and Social Security office, or the police.

According to the National Council for Senior Citizens, six elder-abuse cases were reported in 2016 and 13 in 2017. The council said complaints may involve nursing homes, family members, caregivers, abandonment or neglect, and are first assessed by social workers attached to parish offices.

Financial exploitation was presented as a major danger, especially where older people are lonely, depend on caregivers, or disclose banking information. Families were urged to check regularly for bruises, fearfulness, poor hygiene, bed sores, sudden withdrawals and other warning signs.

The exposé also pointed to the work of the Caribbean Community for Retired Persons, which promotes senior welfare, social engagement, retirement preparation and recognition of older Jamaicans through its Living Legacy Awards.