Portugal confronts surge in elder abuse and mounting health‑care challenges

A report by the Portuguese Association of Victim Support (APAV) shows that violence against people over 65 has risen sharply over the past five years, with children named as the main perpetrators. On 16 June, the National Republican Guard (GNR) shut down nine illegal care homes in Lousada, detaining seven suspects after investigations uncovered 160 elderly residents subjected to neglect, starvation, beatings and unsanitary conditions; four people died.

Portugal is also grappling with broader demographic pressures. Life expectancy has increased, but the ageing population now faces higher rates of chronic disease and multimorbidity. The country's population has surpassed eleven million, yet health‑care staffing, infrastructure and resources have not kept pace, creating long waits and limited access, especially in urban centres and remote interior areas. Family Health Units and Community Care Units are highlighted as essential for delivering preventive and continuous care, but transport shortages and social isolation further hamper service use.