The number of referrals to the HSE's Elder Abuse Services increased by 7% last year, a new review has shown.

According to the review of services in 2012, the HSE received 2,460 referrals of elder abuse last year, 7% more than in 2011.

The most common type of abuse was psychological abuse - this accounted for at least one in three referrals (36%). This was followed by financial abuse (25%), neglect (19%) and physical abuse (13%).

There was a higher referral rate for people over the age of 80 compared to those aged 65-79 and two in three alleged victims were female.

According to the HSE, as has been the pattern in recent years, the alleged perpetrators in 2012 tended to be relatives of the victim. In almost half of cases (46%), a son or daughter was the alleged perpetrator, while spouses/partners were implicated in 17% of cases.

Commenting on the figures, Frank Murphy, chairperson of the National Elder Abuse Steering Committee noted that there has been a ‘year on year increase in the number of referrals since 2008'.

"I would encourage anyone who is concerned about abuse of older people to contact their GP, public health nurse or any healthcare worker," he said.

The HSE emphasised that all referrals of alleged elder abuse are treated in confidence and, as much as possible, handled in a way that respects the wishes of the older person.

"The aim of the HSE service is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of an older person, while providing support to stop the abusive behaviour. Anyone who is being abused, or is concerned about abuse, should talk to someone they trust, contact the HSE Information Line on 1850 24 1850 or contact a health professional such as a GP, public health nurse or social worker," it said.