A total of 1,470 cases of elder abuse were reported to the two elder protection centers operated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government last year, with 440 cases having been confirmed, local authorities said on Monday. (Image: Yonhap)
SEOUL, April 3 (Korea Bizwire) — Family members are responsible for the majority of elder abuse, new government data has revealed.
A total of 1,470 cases of elder abuse were reported to the two elder protection centers operated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government last year, with 440 cases having been confirmed, local authorities said on Monday.
Among the 454 perpetrators, 44.5 percent were sons of the abused, while spouses and daughters accounted for 24.7 percent and 11.9 percent, respectively.
Nearly 9 in 10 cases of elder abuse involved family members as perpetrators, with psychological abuse being the most common form of abuse against the elderly.
Physical abuse, neglect, and financial abuse were among the common forms of abuse, with some cases involving more than one type of abuse.
The government currently operates elder protection agencies across the country, with a 24-hour helpline for emergencies that can be reached at 1577-1389.
Experts are dispatched on-site in response to reports of elder abuse to protect the victims and provide healthcare services when necessary.
The Seoul government currently operates four temporary elder protection facilities for victims in need of urgent help.
As part of efforts to raise awareness, the Seoul government will hold an exhibition dedicated to elder rights at City Hall this Thursday and Friday.
M.H.Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
