Physical violence includes conscious torment and infliction of pain. This also includes failing to provide help or care. This also includes negligent or omitted personal hygiene as well as an inadequate supply of fluids and food.
Violence and age
Violence against older people
Very old people and those in need of care are at greater risk of experiencing violence. The reason for this is that they are often physically weaker and have limited ability to defend themselves. Violence can cause physical and psychological harm. Those affected often feel permanently stressed, desperate or helpless.
Since they rely on support and help in many areas of life and are dependent on carers when they need care, they deserve special protection. Therefore, one should prevent acts of violence from occurring at all.
What is violence?
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines violence against older people as:
- “a single or repeated act or
- “Failure to act appropriately in a trusting relationship that causes harm or suffering to older people.”
Violence comes in many forms
Not everyone is aware that their behavior is inappropriate or abusive.
Acts of violence often occur due to excessive demands and helplessness in stressful situations. Lack of sleep, health problems of the carers or financial dependencies between carers and those in need of care can increase the risk.
However, it also happens that those in need of care exercise violence against carers.
Violence can take place at home, in public spaces, in hospitals or in retirement and nursing homes.
-
-
Psychological violence hurts the soul. These include, for example, patronizing, scolding, threatening or embarrassing people. Ignoring, avoiding eye contact, constant control or preventing social contact are also a form of violence.
Psychological violence is also the withholding of important information.
-
Sexual violence is, for example, inappropriate and unwanted physical touching and actions. These violate a person's sense of shame and privacy.
-
Financial violence occurs when people are forced to give or spend money. This also includes withholding money.
-
Any restriction on free will is violence. This includes interference with personal lifestyle habits and any deprivation of liberty. This can happen through strict rules, restricted movement options or actions without prior agreement. Sorting out household items also limits self-determination.
If others decide what is good for you, those affected lose their self-determination.
What are signs of violence?
Many of those affected remain silent out of shame or helplessness. Often they don't know how to broach the topic. Possible signs of violence include:
• Behavioral changes such as withdrawal or jumpiness
• Sleep problems
• Lethargy
• Injuries, such as in the intimate area
• Skin injuries
• Bruises, broken bones, bruises
• Poor hygiene
If you notice or observe signs of violence, aggressive behavior or an aggressive tone, talk to the relevant person. If necessary, contact a person you trust or an appropriate advice center.
The Pro Senectute Austria association set up an advice line on violence and old age on behalf of the Ministry of Social Affairs. It offers advice and support to those affected, but also to relatives or carers.
For more information on elder abuse, please visit the following link:
Last update: July 9, 2026
Was this helpful?
Use the buttons below to leave feedback. You may provide additional details in a second step.