World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 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.
The purpose of WEAAD is to provide an opportunity for communities
around the world 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.
The day aims to focus global attention on the problem of physical,
emotional, and financial abuse of elders. It also seeks to understand the
challenges and opportunities presented by an ageing population, and brings
together senior citizens, and their caregivers, national and local government,
academics, and the private sector to exchange ideas about how best to reduce
incidents of violence towards elders, increase reporting of such abuse, and to
develop elder friendly policies.
Background
Currently, the world is undergoing significant demographic
changes. Estimates indicate that by 2050, the global population of people above
the age of 60 will exceed the number of younger people. These changes have led
to a worldwide recognition of the problems and challenges that face the
elderly. Research has shown that elderly abuse, neglect, violence, and
exploitation is one of the biggest issues facing senior citizens around the
world. World Health Organization data suggests that 4 to 6 per cent of elderly
suffer from some form of abuse, a large percentage of which goes unreported.
The purpose of the WEAAD is to encourage communities to recognize
the problem of elderly abuse, and for countries to create policies that foster
respect for elders and provide them the tools to continue to be productive
citizens.
Observances
The first WEAAD was observed in 2012, and was marked by meetings
and conferences at the UN headquarters in New York.
In addition, WEAAD is in support of the United Nations International
Plan of Action acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health
and human rights issue. WEAAD serves as a call-to-action for individuals,
organizations, and communities to raise awareness about elder abuse, neglect,
and exploitation.
Visit the WEAAD microsite on ACL.gov to become a
collaborator.
Check out WEAAD events hosted worldwide at the WEADD International Events website created
by International Network for the
Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA)
We all should take action or at least be aware of this issue. To
find the Tools & Tips you need to get started go to this site.
Visit this Take Action page to
find more ideas. Need additional resources? Contact the National Center on Elder Abuse
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