World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

This, Saturday, June 15th is a day to focus on seniors

Most people realize it’s important to take care of the senior citizens in our society and make sure they’re well provided for. Not just the seniors in our community, but also those around the world. We’re aware of the importance of senior care and so is the United Nations. The UN even created a day dedicated to spreading the word – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

In 2012, the UN designated June 15 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). The day aims to focus global attention on the problem of physical, emotional, and financial abuse of elders. It also seeks to understand the challenges and opportunities presented by an ageing population, and brings together senior citizens, and their caregivers, national and local government, academics, and the private sector to exchange ideas about how best to reduce incidents of violence towards elders, increase reporting of such abuse, and to develop elder friendly policies.

Currently, the world is undergoing significant demographic changes. Estimates indicate that by 2050, the global population of people above the age of 60 will exceed the number of younger people. These changes have led to a worldwide recognition of the problems and challenges that face the elderly. Research has shown that elderly abuse (which includes neglect, violence, and exploitation) is one of the biggest issues facing senior citizens around the world. World Health Organization data suggests that 4 to 6 per cent of elderly suffer from some form of abuse, a large percentage of which goes unreported.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was initially launched on June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the United Nations World Health Organization. Then on March 9, 2012 the UN General Assembly resolution 66/127 established June 15th as a UN International Day. The purpose of the WEAAD is to encourage communities to recognize the problem of elderly abuse, and for countries to create policies that foster respect for elders and provide them the tools to continue to be productive citizens.

On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, individuals and organizations from across the world are urged to raise awareness of the various types of abuse to which older individuals are subjected. If you’re looking for ways to commemorate the day, the Administration for Community Living provides information, tools, and resources. You can also check out the YEAP toolkit and WEAAD logos for resources when planning your activities.

To learn more about elder abuse and what can be done to prevent it, visit the Administration on Aging website. Also note that in addition to the WEAAD, the UN also observes an International Day of Older Persons day on October 1 every year to recognize the contributions of older persons and to examine issues that affect their lives. Mark the date on your calendar!

If you need help finding senior housing in your area, please call (888) WE-ASSIST or visit the Alternatives for Seniors website.

 

Writer: Ryan Allen