There were almost 2,600 referrals made to the elder abuse service last year - an increase of 5% on 2013.

The HSE says it represents the largest number of referrals received in any year since the service was established.

Psychological and financial abuse were most frequently reported, followed by neglect and physical abuse.

Two-thirds of referrals related to women, most of whom were over 80.

Paschal Moynihan, HSE specialist in services for older persons, spoke to Newstalk Lunchtime this afternoon about the figures.

"The reasons for the increase in referrals is probably because the HSE is engaged in various public awareness campaigns and training sessions over the last few years to highlight the issue of elder abuse," Paschal told Jonathan.

He explained psychological abuse "can have a significant impact on an older person. I think it's also important to point out that in many cases there may be two different types of abuse reported to the HSE".

You can listen back to Paschal's comments below: