Elder abuse is a problem that exists both in developing and developed countries and affects millions of older adults worldwide. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is observed on June 15 every year to raise awareness about the abuse, neglect and exploitation of older adults. Often these abuses go unnoticed leaving many elder adults to suffer in silence. The impact of such abuse is profound affecting the health and well-being of older adults and causing distress within families and communities.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2024: Theme
This year’s World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) focuses on the theme “Spotlight on Older Persons in Emergencies.”
The theme underscores the urgent need to protect and support elder adults during a crisis. With this, governments, international donors, organisations and communities are called upon to prioritise the safety and well-being of older adults in their emergency planning and response efforts.
It encourages the creation of inclusive policies to ensure older adults are considered and protected during a crisis.
WEAAD also stressesuponthe significance of education and training for emergency responders, caregivers and the public. The goal is to enhance awareness and foster a more supportive and secure environment by addressing the specific challenges that older adults face in emergencies.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2024: History
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, established on June 15,originatedfrom the efforts of the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) in 2006. Its significancewas further solidifiedwhen the United Nations General Assembly officially recognised it as a UN Day through a resolution in 2011.
By designating June 15 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the international community acknowledged the importance of raising awareness about elder abuse and promoting measures to prevent it.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2024: Significance
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day holds significant importancesheddinglight on the prevalent issue of elder abuse. Elder abuse is of various formssuchas physical, psychological, sexual and financial abuse. It can also be the result of intentional or unintentional neglect.
According to a 2017 study highlighted by the United Nations, approximately 15.7 per cent of individuals aged 60 years and older experienced some form of abuse within a year. This day serves as a crucial platform to raise awareness about the prevalence of elder abuseand highlightsthe importance of the protection and well-being of older adults worldwide.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2024: Signs Of Elder Abuse
- Physical AbusePushing, slapping, biting, kicking or rough handling may indicate physical abuse. It is important to be alert to injuries that may suggest elderabuseas older individuals may hesitate to report it.
- Social AbuseMistreatment involving isolating, controlling or manipulating older adults constitutes social abuse. Recognising these signs is crucial in ensuringsafety of theolder individuals.
- Financial AbuseIt occurs when someone illegally or improperly uses an older adult’s funds, property or assets. This form can be of various formssuchas theft, fraud or exploitation.Takingsteps to protect older adults from exploitation and safeguard their financial securityisimportant.
- NeglectIt involves the failure to provide necessary care, assistance or support to meet the basic needs ofelderadultssuchas food, shelter, clothing, medical care or emotional support. Signs of neglect may include poor hygiene, untreated medical conditions or social isolation.
- Emotional AbuseIt can take up various forms including pressuring, belittling, name-calling and threat of harm to older adults. Refusing access to grandchildren is another example of emotional abuse. It is important to offer assistance to an older adult to protect their emotional and mental health.
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