Overview:
Older people play an important and vital role in building and developing society, however, over time they become extremely vulnerable and many of them suffer from poverty, disability, or face discrimination. One of the most important aspects of discrimination against older people is their abuse, which is a problem that exists in both developing and developed countries alike, but it is also one of the problems that are not sufficiently reported globally.
Elder abuse is a hidden problem, which means the violence or neglect of an older person by a companion, or anyone close to him, which may lead to harm to him, and whatever type of abuse, it may lead to suffering, injury, pain, or violation of human rights, and a reduction in the quality of life of the elderly. Elderly abuse may be by doing harmful things to them, or directing hurtful words to them, or by preventing them from accessing things necessary for them. Abuse often becomes more frequent and severe over time.
The first of October each year marks the World Day for Awareness against Elder Abuse. It is the only day on which the whole world expresses its opposition to the abuse and suffering inflicted on some of our elderly parents and grandparents.
Objectives:
- Promoting supportive environments for the elderly in the community.
- Raising awareness of healthy lifestyles to reduce pain and complications associated with aging.
- Providing psychological and social support to the elderly and raising awareness about the psychological and social challenges and difficulties they face.
Facts:
Prevalence rates of elder abuse are only available in developed countries and range from 1-10%. Although its extent is unknown, its social and ethical significance is clear. It is a global social issue affecting the health and rights of millions of older people around the world, and it is an issue that deserves the attention of the international community.
Official Date
Globally: October1, 2025.
Locally: Rabi’ Al Thani 9, 1447 AH.
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