I SHOULD like to make a point which I feel should be more appreciated and which does not seem to have been aired in the many recent articles about the abuse of elderly people with dementia (Journal, October 2).

It is true that the person concerned may well forget the actual abuse, be it mental or physical, in a fairly short time and this in itself may make it seem more acceptable.

However, the feelings remain very much longer and the poor victim is left upset or angry but with no idea as to why.

Not only is this terribly distressing but can also lead to further apparent ‘difficult’ behaviour leading to further frustration for carers, family and friends and also therefore possible further abuse.

Jennifer Briant

Porton