75 seniors from gruesome nursing homes in Bulgaria freed!

75 seniors from gruesome nursing homes in Bulgaria freed!

Yagoda, Bulgarien - In Bulgaria, 75 seniors were freed from two illegal nursing homes. This liberation campaign took place in the centrally located village of Yagoda and was carried out by the police. The liberated were between 51 and 85 years old and had to live under catastrophic conditions. Operators of the facilities were said to have offered rooms for renting to avoid inspections by the health authorities. Five suspects were arrested and are in custody. Justice Minister Georgi Georgiev described the said facilities as "horror houses".

The conditions in the homes were terrifying: some seniors were "tied up on the feet" and were under the influence of narcotics. According to reports, the elderly lived in "rooms without bedding, with dismantled window handles and cut off from the outside world". An older lady had not been able to leave her facility for four years, while another resident tried to flee, but captured, beaten and left unconscious. A total of 18 former inmates were admitted to hospitals, two of them hovered in mortal danger.

abuse of older people: a widespread problem

These shattering incidents throw a light on the widespread and often hidden problem of abuse of older people, which occurs in both domestic and institutional environments. It is estimated that between 300,000 and 500,000 people aged 60 and over are affected annually. Abuse can include physical or mental abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. Often it is adult children, relatives or caregivers who act as perpetrators, which makes it difficult to discover such grievances. According to the "National Center on Elder Abuse", 1 out of 10 older adults are victims of abuse.

The effects are serious and go beyond physical health: abuse is significantly associated with psychological problems, hospitalization and even premature mortality. Especially in the time of Covid 19 pandemic, the reports of reports were increased. There are recognizable risk factors for victims, such as chronic diseases, dementia or social isolation that indicate growing vulnerability.

political measures and prevention

The problem requires urgent measures for prevention, recognition and intervention. Experts in healthcare should be trained in order to recognize warning signals, and the interdisciplinary approach to the treatment of abuse is crucial. Support could also be made through sensitization campaigns and the provision of hotline services. The Federal Council in Switzerland has recognized that a more serious examination of violence in old age needs, and has already taken steps to combat abuse. A Switzerland -wide hotline and further training offers are examples of such initiatives.

Finally, it can be said that the current incidents in Bulgaria illustrate the urgent need to protect older people and ensure that they live in an environment that respects their dignity. The fight against the abuse of older people has to be reinforced and put into social focus to ensure a safe and dignified life for all seniors.

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