Brazil sees surge in elderly violence cases, Rio MP reports

The Center for Operational Support of Elderly Justice Offices (CAO Pessoa Idosa/MPRJ) of the Rio de Janeiro State Public Prosecutor's Office reported that cases of violence against seniors rose from 2,386 in 2024 to 2,967 in 2025, a 24% increase. Women accounted for the majority of victims, and most incidents occurred at home, with neglect identified in 29% of cases. Prosecutor‑General Antonio José Campos Moreira and CAO coordinator Luiz Cláudio Carvalho emphasized the need for public awareness and a structured support network for the elderly.

National data from the Ministry of Human Rights and Citizenship (MDHC) shows more than 1.6 million complaints filed through the Disque 100 hotline between January 2024 and April 2026. In the first four months of 2026, nearly 250 000 reports were logged, up almost 19% from the same period in the previous year. The most common abuses are physical, psychological, and neglect, primarily affecting women aged 70‑74, with family members often identified as perpetrators. Brazilian law provides administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for individuals and institutions that violate the rights of older persons, ranging from fines to imprisonment and possible closure of facilities. Authorities continue to urge victims and witnesses to use the 24‑hour Disque 100 line, the Public Prosecutor's Office, and other official channels for reporting.