Church documents supporting the Catholic Church’s stance on protecting older adults from abuse and exploitation and providing support services:
- Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2208):
“The family should live in such a way that its members learn to care and take responsibility for the young and the old, the sick and the handicapped, and those in need.”
This passage highlights the family’s crucial role in supporting and safeguarding its elderly members.
- Pope Francis’ Message for the Second World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly (2022):
“I urge everyone to visit the elderly who live alone, in nursing homes or in hospitals. Let us never forget them!”
Pope Francis actively encourages concrete actions to combat the isolation and vulnerability of older adults, which can leave them susceptible to abuse.
- Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Health Care Workers’ Charter for Health Care Workers (1995):
“Elderly people need special attention and care so that they will never feel useless or a burden.”
This charter emphasizes the importance of respecting the dignity of older adults and providing them with the care and support they need to thrive.
- U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services (ERDs):
“Catholic health care institutions should be actively involved in shaping a society that protects the dignity and rights of all vulnerable persons, including the elderly.”
The ERDs call upon Catholic healthcare organizations to actively advocate for policies and practices that safeguard older adults from harm and exploitation.
In addition to these documents, various statements from bishops’ conferences and individual bishops around the world have condemned elder abuse and called for greater protection and support for older adults.
These sources demonstrate the Catholic Church’s unwavering commitment to protecting older adults from abuse and exploitation and providing them with the necessary care and support to live fulfilling lives.