Portugal police launch nationwide operation to protect seniors from crime and isolation

Portugal’s Public Security Police (PSP) have begun the annual “A Solidariedade Não Tem Idade” operation, running from 27 July to 25 September 2026. The initiative, run by the police’s Equipas de Proximidade e Apoio à Vítima (EPAV), targets people aged 65 and over to detect early signs of social fragility, physical or mental vulnerability, and potential crimes such as domestic violence, theft, fraud and cyber‑scams.

Last year the EPAV teams flagged 559 seniors, of whom 391 were considered at risk – 140 lacked autonomy, 67 were victims of crimes, 66 suffered serious health issues and 44 had no support network. Police officers provide direct contact, digital‑skills training and referrals to social and health services, aiming to reduce isolation, loneliness and economic vulnerability while strengthening community safety.

The operation also promotes safer use of technology among seniors and reinforces the PSP’s proximity policing model, where officers often become the primary point of contact and trusted confidants for isolated older citizens.