DISCUSSION PAPER1
What can the European Union do to protect dignity in old age and prevent elder abuse?
The frail elderly are a highly vulnerable group of people and it is crucial to address question of safeguarding their fundamental rights in the European Union in this changing demographic context. What is at stake is the protection of human dignity (Article 1 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union) and of physical and mental integrity (Article 3), protection against inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment (Article 4) and the right of the elderly to lead a life of dignity and independence and to participate in social and cultural life (Article 25).
CONCLUSION
While millions of frail elderly Europeans are well cared for by loving relatives and dedicated professionals, there are also many in real danger of abuse and neglect. This danger increases with the seriousness of the older person's health impairments and the stress that is put on carers. The few national prevalence studies that exist suggest that the risk to older citizens is intolerably high. The growing percentage of older people, the increasing strains on their relatives, who more and more often need to reconcile work and private 0bligations, and the risk of a lack of affordable professional care, could make the situation worse.
The European conference to take place in Brussels on 17th March 2008 represents an opportunity to discuss with stakeholders from across the European Union how the dignity of older people can be protected more effectively and how elder abuse and neglect can be prevented. This paper sketches out a number of actions that could be taken at European level. Naturally, the debate with stakeholders is open and all suggestions should be given serious consideration having regard to the principle of subsidiarity, and the limited competences of the European Union in this area. Thus, anything that the European Union can do will represent only a modest contribution towards tackling the challenge, but this could help create and sustain a momentum in the Member States and so lead to a significant improvement in the quality of life of many older citizens.
Abridged
SOURCE: ec_europa
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At last, some information from Europe regarding the important issue of protecting the vulnerable older people and the prevention of elder abuse. As stated in the discussion paper - it is now up to the stakeholders (member countries of EU) to take the necessary actions towards the challenge.
For many "stakeholders", this may still be a sensitive issue as it must impact on government overall-budget.
Perhaps, they will commission more studies or researches, before they act. This will, of course, take time and money. Oftentimes, such a move may be viewed as stalling tactic. Let us be optimistic, and hope that stakeholders will act promptly.
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