World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was launched on June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. Elder abuse can be defined as “a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person”.

The purpose of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is to provide an opportunity for communities around the globe to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect. It is the one day a year when the whole world collectively voices its opposition to the abuse and suffering inflicted to some of our senior generations.

In many parts of the world elder abuse occurs with little recognition or response. It is a global social concern, which affects the Health and Human Rights of millions of seniors around the world. It is an issue relatively hidden from the public eye, but deserves the attention of the international community. Until today, elder abuse is underestimated and often ignored by societies across the world.

In support of Elder Abuse Awareness, the United Nations has emerged an International Plan of Action acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a Public Health and Human Rights issue. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day serves as a call-to-action for individuals, organizations, and communities to raise awareness about elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

A Proclamation on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, 2022:

“It is more vital than ever that we ensure our older adults can age with the dignity, security, and appreciation that every person deserves.  Honoring and respecting older Americans is a matter of basic human dignity and justice — it is part of the character of our Nation.  Yet every year, many Americans aged 60 and older experience abuse and neglect.  On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, we join the international community to raise awareness and help end elder abuse here at home and across the world… SEE MORE” – President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

This year’s World Elder Abuse Awareness theme is Digital Equity for All Ages. Digital equity may lead to an increase in digital literacy, which is the “ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information effectively.” Digital technologies refer to a wide range of new technologies ranging from the internet, mobile phones, and all the other tools to collect, store, analyze, and share information digitally, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, automation, 5G, cryptocurrencies and the internet.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of abuse, exploitation, or neglect, you are not alone. If the danger is immediate, please contact the police by dialing 911. If the danger is not immediate, but you suspect that abuse has occurred or is occurring please tell a doctor, a friend, or a family member you trust. You can also call your local Adult Protective Services at 1800-962-2873 / TTY:1800-955-8771 or file a report online at https://reportabuse.dcf.state.fl.us/

Sources:

National Center of Elder Abuse

United Nations – Department of Economic Affairs & Social Affairs

Whitehouse.gov