Overview:
Elder abuse, also known as elder abuse, is a single or repeated act, or failure to act, within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, that results in harm or distress to an older person. This type of violence is a violation of human rights and includes physical, sexual, psychological and emotional abuse; financial and material abuse; abandonment; neglect; and serious denial of dignity and respect.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is held on June 15th each year; it is the only day in the year when the world stands up against the abuse and suffering inflicted on some of our elderly parents and grandparents.
Objectives:
- Every June 15th, a spotlight is placed on all forms of elder abuse and neglect to raise awareness and put an end to the mistreatment of older people around us.
- Abuse is not limited to physical violence, but extends to emotional, financial and psychological blackmail.
Facts:
- Nearly 1 in 6 people aged 60 and older experienced some form of abuse in community settings in the past year.
- Elder abuse is on the rise in institutions such as nursing homes and long-term care facilities, with 2 in 3 staff reporting some form of abuse in the past year.
- Elder abuse has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Elder abuse can lead to serious physical injuries and long-term psychological effects.
- Elder abuse is expected to increase as many countries experience rapid population growth.
- The global population aged 60 and older will more than double, from 900 million in 2015 to nearly 2 billion in 2050.
Official Date:
Globally: June 15, 2025.
Locally: Dhu’l Hijjah 19, 1446 AH.
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