New measures needed to protect older people, MPs say

MPs have condemned the lack of action to prevent abuse of older
people.

The House of Commons health committee said there were “few
measures” to deal with a problem that may affect 500,000 older
people in England.

The committee, which has published a report following its
inquiry into the abuse of older people, said most abuse takes place
in the person’s home. The abuse can take many forms – sexual,
financial, medical, physical, by neglect and by humiliation.

Other findings from the report include:

*   Carers often take no action due to lack of training or
ignorance of reporting procedures

*   Over-medication in care homes is often used as a way of
managing residents

*   People over 75 should have their medicines revirewed at
least annually

*   The Commission for Social Care Inspection should ensure all
care homes use good practice in administering medication

*   The government should issue the POVA (Protection of
Vulnerable Adults) list as soon as possible

*  Stricter rules for the certification of deaths in care homes
by a GP

Full report