by Clare O’Dea, swissinfo.ch

Some of the most vulnerable members of society, frail and dependent old people, suffer physical and emotional abuse in their own homes – and the problem is growing.

As life expectancy continues to rise, so do the numbers of people needing daily care and at risk of experiencing dementia. This is a recipe for increased domestic abuse against the elderly, experts say.

Abuse can range from poor care or neglect to physical attacks such as rough handling, hitting and shaking. Elderly people are often victims of psychological violence, such as shouting, bullying and terrorising. Others are robbed or pressured into handing over money. read more

An estimated 80 per cent of violence takes place inside the victim’s home (Keystone/V. Schulz)