Portuguese police identify hundreds of elderly citizens at social risk

The Portuguese Public Security Police (PSP) has reported significant findings from its ongoing operation, ‘A Solidariedade Não Tem Idade – a PSP com os Idosos’. Between July 27 and September 1, 2026, the initiative has identified 284 elderly individuals, 182 of whom are in situations of social risk.

Key risk factors identified include a lack of autonomy (77 cases), suspicion of being victims of repeated crimes (59 cases), and a lack of social networks (48 cases). Other identified issues include serious clinical conditions requiring immediate medical attention, degrading living conditions, and economic insufficiency. The PSP noted an increase in cases related to social isolation compared to the previous year.

In Maia, the ‘Polícia Municipal, Proximidade Maior’ community policing program is celebrating 10 years of operation. The program has supported approximately 100 elderly citizens through 11,600 contacts, including home visits and telephone check-ins. Currently, the program monitors about 40 individuals, roughly 80% of whom live alone, to prevent social isolation and address issues such as fraud, violence, and negligence.