Elderly safety concerns rise in Brazil and Portugal

Challenges regarding the safety and well-being of the elderly population are being highlighted in Brazil and Portugal. In Brazil, data from the IBGE indicates that people aged 60 or older now comprise 16.6% of the total population, necessitating improved public policies to combat violence, neglect, and discrimination.

In Portugal, authorities report an average of 20 elderly disappearances per month, with 2,600 cases recorded over the last decade. Experts from SaveFamily warn that extreme heatwaves exacerbate these risks, as high temperatures can cause dehydration, fatigue, and confusion. This is particularly dangerous for individuals living alone or those suffering from Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other neurodegenerative diseases, which can accelerate disorientation and lead to life-threatening situations.