World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), observed on June 15th, is a vital occasion that shines a light on the issue of elder abuse, a serious social problem that often goes underreported and unrecognized.
Important points related to Elderly Abuse
A 2017 study based on the best available evidence from 52 studies in 28 countries from diverse regions, including 12 low- and middle-income countries, estimated that, over the past year, 15.7% of people aged 60 years and older were subjected to some form of abuse. This is likely to be an underestimation, as only 1 in 24 cases of elder abuse is reported, in part because older people are often afraid to report cases of abuse to family, friends, or to the authorities. Consequently, any prevalence rates are likely to be underestimated.
Although rigorous data are limited, the study provides pooled prevalence estimates of number of older people affected by different types of abuse:
- psychological abuse: 11.6%
- financial abuse: 6.8%
- neglect: 4.2%
- physical abuse: 2.6%
- sexual abuse: 0.9%
Globally, the number of cases of elder abuse is projected to increase as many countries have rapidly ageing populations whose needs may not be fully met due to resource constraints. It is predicted that by the year 2050, the global population of people aged 60 years and older will more than double, from 900 million in 2015 to about 2 billion, with the vast majority of older people living in low- and middle-income countries. If the proportion of elder abuse victims remains constant, the number of victims will increase rapidly due to population ageing, growing to 320 million victims by 2050.
History of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, observed annually on June 15th, was established by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) in 2006 and later recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2011, following the resolution A/RES/66/127.
Initiated by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) in 2006 and recognized by the United Nations, WEAAD invites global action to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons – a violation of human rights that affects health and human dignity. The day serves as a call to action for individuals, organizations, and governments to raise awareness about the cultural, social, economic, and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect.
This day serves as a vital global acknowledgement of the mistreatment that older individuals may face, often in silence. The day aims to raise awareness about the abuse and suffering inflicted on some of our older generations, which can be physical, emotional, or financial. It’s a call to action for individuals, organizations, and governments to participate in activities that will bring about change and create a better understanding of respect and care for elders. The resolution encourages all member states and organizations to observe this day in a manner that brings to light the issue of elder abuse, a problem that remains largely underreported and invisible in society. The significance of this day lies in its role as a reminder that elder individuals deserve to live with dignity and respect, free from abuse and neglect.
Theme of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2024
The theme for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) in 2024 is “Spotlight on Older Persons in Emergencies.” This theme emphasizes the importance of protecting and supporting older individuals during crises such as natural disasters, pandemics, or conflicts. These emergencies can disproportionately affect older persons, exacerbating their existing vulnerabilities. The United Nations has highlighted the need for inclusive policies and strategies to ensure that the needs of older persons are addressed in emergency planning and response. Education and training for emergency responders, caregivers, and the public are also crucial to increase awareness about the specific challenges faced by older persons in emergencies. As we observe WEAAD, it’s a call to action to safeguard the rights and dignity of older persons, ensuring that no one is left behind, especially in times of crisis.
Significance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
It is a day when the world voices its opposition to the abuse and suffering inflicted on some of our older generations. Recognizing the significance of elder abuse as a public health and societal issue, WEAAD confronts the taboo that keeps elder abuse shrouded in silence and asserts the importance of our elders’ dignity and fundamental human rights.
It emphasizes that elder abuse is not only a personal issue but a societal one that affects the health and human rights of millions of older persons around the world. The day calls for international attention to the cultural, social, economic, and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect. It is a call to action for individuals, organizations, and governments to participate in activities that promote understanding, respect, and care for the elderly. WEAAD is a reminder that elder justice is a reflection of a just society, and it is up to each one of us to ensure that older adults are treated with the respect and care they deserve.
How to Observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Observing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on June 15th involves a range of activities designed to raise awareness about elder abuse and promote the rights and well-being of older adults.
Communities can host workshops and seminars where experts discuss the signs of elder abuse and prevention strategies, providing valuable education to the public. Additionally, webinars and online campaigns can be organized to reach a broader audience, leveraging social media to share informative content and raise awareness. Distributing pamphlets, brochures, and posters that detail the different forms of elder abuse, how to recognize them, and the steps to take if abuse is suspected can further educate and engage the community.
Collaboration with local organizations, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups can enhance these efforts, creating a supportive network for older adults. Hosting community events, such as walkathons or candlelight vigils, can also help draw attention to the issue and demonstrate solidarity with older adults.
Finally, encouraging individuals to wear purple, the color associated with elder abuse awareness, and share their support on social media can help amplify the message and show collective commitment to ending elder abuse.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Observation Dates
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is commemorated annually on June 15th to highlight the mistreatment of older adults and to promote societal change towards ending elder abuse. From 2019-29, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed as follows:
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2019 | 15-Jun-19 | Saturday |
| 2020 | 15-Jun-20 | Monday |
| 2021 | 15-Jun-21 | Tuesday |
| 2022 | 15-Jun-22 | Wednesday |
| 2023 | 15-Jun-23 | Thursday |
| 2024 | 15-Jun-24 | Saturday |
| 2025 | 15-Jun-25 | Sunday |
| 2026 | 15-Jun-26 | Monday |
| 2027 | 15-Jun-27 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | 15-Jun-28 | Thursday |
| 2029 | 15-Jun-29 | Friday |
