The Portuguese Police of Public Security (PSP) has reported a total of 54,275 crimes against elderly citizens over the past three years. According to data released to the Lusa news agency, the PSP received 18,432 complaints in 2023, which decreased to 17,613 in 2024, but increased again to 18,230 last year. The majority of these crimes were related to property, such as theft and scams.
The PSP's Division of Criminal Prevention and Community Policing, led by Hugo Guinote, has observed a trend of relative stabilization in reported crimes against elderly citizens since the post-Covid period. In 2023, 2024, and 2025, the number of complaints ranged from 17,500 to 18,500 per year. Guinote attributed this stabilization to the increasing adoption of self-protective behaviors among elderly citizens.
Property crimes, particularly theft and scams, were prevalent among the reported crimes. In 2024, there were 2,488 complaints of scams, 1,635 of computer and communication-related scams, and 1,026 residential burglaries. Violence against elderly citizens also remains a concern, with 1,822 domestic violence cases and 1,243 simple physical assaults reported in 2024.
The PSP has also noticed an increase in pickpocketing incidents targeting elderly citizens. In 2024, there were 1,006 reported cases, which rose to 1,227 in 2025. Domestic violence cases also increased, with 1,894 reported incidents last year. The PSP's data shows that elderly male victims are more likely to be targeted in property crimes, while females are more likely to be victims of crimes against persons.
According to the PSP, elderly victims of crimes have an average age of 73 years. The police have been conducting hundreds of awareness campaigns in day centers, nursing homes, and door-to-door initiatives to educate elderly citizens on self-protective behaviors. These campaigns aim to alert elderly citizens to potential risks and promote safe practices in their daily lives.
The PSP has a dedicated program, Apoio 65 – Idosos em Segurança, which focuses on protecting elderly citizens, particularly those living alone or in vulnerable social situations. The program is implemented by around 300-350 police officers across the country. Guinote believes that the stabilization of crime rates against elderly citizens is a positive trend, suggesting that they are becoming more aware of potential risks and taking steps to protect themselves.
The PSP's efforts to combat crimes against elderly citizens are ongoing, with a focus on prevention and community engagement. By working closely with elderly citizens and raising awareness about potential risks, the PSP aims to continue reducing crime rates and promoting a safer environment for this vulnerable population. The police also encourage elderly citizens to report any suspicious activity or crimes to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
Key points
- The PSP reported 54,275 crimes against elderly citizens over the past three years.
- Property crimes, such as theft and scams, are prevalent among reported crimes against elderly citizens.
- The PSP has implemented awareness campaigns and a dedicated program to protect elderly citizens and promote self-protective behaviors.
