Elder abuse in Malta

Like Dr Marvin Formosa (The Sunday Times, June 17) and undoubtedly many others familiar with residential care homes, I strongly believe the need exists, also in Malta, to bring to light the incidence abuse of elderly persons in residential homes, including those run by the state.

The findings of a recent survey mentioned by Dr Formosa and relating to elder abuse in a local residential home are typical of the degrading experience suffered by some residents of at least one female ward at St Vincent de Paul in recent months.

It is indeed very sad and shameful that some of the employees, usually lower grades, find it possible to 'amuse' themselves by being uncharitable when dealing with elderly residents, including amputees, whose physical or mental condition makes them increasingly helpless and dependent on others for daily personal needs.

I have no doubt that the people occupying positions of responsibility at St Vincent de Paul and at the Social Services Ministry would greatly benefit from carefully digesting this year's world elder abuse awareness campaign objectives as explained by Dr Formosa.

May I also suggest that the authorities concerned, possibly with the help of a suitable NGO, introduce regular, authentic surveys among registered next-of-kin of residents in state homes for the elderly aimed at highlighting cases of elder abuse affecting their relatives there.