World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is an annual observance held on June 15th to raise awareness about the mistreatment of older persons. Established by the United Nations in 2011, WEAAD aims to shed light on the global problem of elder abuse and promote the rights and well-being of older individuals.
Elder abuse is a widespread issue affecting millions of older people worldwide. It can take various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as neglect and abandonment. The consequences of elder abuse are severe, leading to physical and mental health problems, social isolation, and even premature death.
This year’s theme, “Spotlight on Older Persons in Emergencies,” highlights the unique challenges faced by older individuals during crises, such as natural disasters, armed conflicts, and health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. These situations often exacerbate the risk of elder abuse and neglect, making it crucial to address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of older persons in emergency response efforts.
WEAAD serves as a reminder that elder abuse is a serious societal issue that requires collective action. It provides an opportunity to:
The International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) founded World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in June 2006, with the United Nations General Assembly officially recognizing it in December 2011. Since then, WEAAD has been observed annually to amplify the global movement against elder abuse.
On this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, let us unite in our efforts to create a society that values and respects older persons. We must challenge the stigma and silence surrounding elder abuse and advocate for stronger policies, better support systems, and increased awareness. Together, we can build a world where older individuals can live with dignity, free from abuse and neglect.
A Multinational Corporation, or MNC, is a large company with business operations in multiple countries.…
The first newspaper in India, Hicky’s Bengal Gazette, was founded by James Augustus Hicky in…
Anousheh Ansari is an influential Iranian-American engineer, entrepreneur, and space traveler. Born on September 12,…
October, the tenth month of the year, is a month packed with globally significant days,…
Earth is set to welcome a temporary "mini-moon" in the form of a small asteroid…
On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Ministry of Tourism launched "Paryatan Mitra" and…