Strengthening Protections Against Elderly Abuse
In a significant move to bolster the safety and well-being of senior citizens, the Cypriot government is taking decisive steps to enhance its government framework for the protection of the elderly. Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis, after a productive discussion with Demos Antoniou, chairman of the Third Age Observatory, disclosed plans for an integrated approach to combat elderly abuse.
The newly forged alliance between the ministry, the observatory, and law enforcement agencies is set to embark on a series of initiatives aimed at raising public awareness about the plight of the elderly facing abuse and financial exploitation. This collaboration will see the launch of targeted information and education campaigns designed to sensitize society to the vulnerabilities of older individuals.
Central to this initiative is the development of emergency response protocols that will ensure swift action when abuse is detected. Moreover, there will be a concerted effort to improve the communication flow between the observatory and the police, ensuring that cases of abuse are promptly addressed.
Another critical aspect of this initiative is the ongoing training of police officers. Since 2018, officers have been receiving specialized instruction in recognizing signs of abuse in elderly individuals and learning effective communication techniques to support them. This training has garnered attention at the European Union level, being hailed as “good practice,” and positioning Cyprus as a leader in elder care initiatives.
Hartsiotis emphasized the government’s commitment to this cause, stating that issues affecting elderly citizens “must be prioritized.” His remarks underscored a broader, more compassionate approach to policymaking that places the welfare of senior members of society at the forefront.
The meeting concluded with Antoniou expressing gratitude towards Hartsiotis for his genuine concern and proactive stance on safeguarding the rights and dignity of Cyprus’s elderly population. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the fight against
