KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) said it has noted with alarm the continued perpetration of violence in the society, and in particular, the victimisation of older citizens.

According to the NCSC, since the start of this year there have been continuing incidents of serious crimes against senior citizens. It added that while no crime is acceptable, acts of violence and abuse against older people are particularly troubling, as they reflect a loss of values and attitudes that would have traditionally protected these citizens from the worst of society’s negatives.

Data on major crimes over the past five years, although showing some reduction in numbers in categories such as robbery, break-ins and aggravated assault, still record significant numbers of senior citizens as victims, including murder and shootings.

The NCSC is calling on the society to honour its commitment to the care and protection of the most vulnerable groups, and to accord to senior citizens the respect and dignity that is their right.