They are amongst the most vulnerable people in our society, often frail, often suffering from dementia.

However, it seems too many pensioners who need care are suffering neglect or abuse with a rise in the number of complaints. 

Last year, there were 275 complaints against Scottish care homes - the highest number since 2005.  Of those complaints, more than 150 were upheld.

A further 73 complaints were made about care delivered in people's personal homes. 38 were upheld, which is the highest figure for at least five years.

Explaining the figures, the Care Commission points to a growing awareness, and therefore use, of the complaints procedure.

New legislation is also now in place giving local councils greater powers to protect 'at risk' adults including banning orders for those most at risk. But campaigners say more laws aren't enough.

Scottish ministers insist they are investing £24 million to help establish local adult protection units. A new advertising campaign is one of the initiatives currently in the planning stages.

One recent example of abuse was the case of Joseph Sinja, whose job was to look after the elderly.  While in his post, he subjected a 76-year-old woman to a serious sexual attack.

Sinja worked at a care home run by Edinburgh City Council. He was jailed for six years and eight months in July. Procedures at the home have now been tightened.