Once Leon Trotsky said, ” old age is the most unexpected of all the things that can happen to a man”. Old age is really unexpected and sometimes it can be really unfortunate. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed on June 15 every year.
This day is marked to raise awareness against the abuse and neglect of older persons and raise awareness of the cultural, and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect. This day highlights the plight of the elderly people at the hands of their care givers or society. This year, world Elder Abuse Awareness Day coincides with two major events. The first one being the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030). The second one, is the 20th milestone of the Second World Assembly. This two major events have been combated this year.
Elder abuse is a problem that has its existence both in developing and developed nations. Yet it is typically underreported globally. This day marks the idea of giving voice to the elder people to raise their voice against all the abuses faced by them. Some form of Elder abuse are-
Physical Abuse– it is when an elder experiences illness, pain, injury, functional impairment, distress, or death. As a result of the intentional use of physical force which includes acts such as hitting, kicking, pushing, slapping and burning.
Emotional or Psychological abuse– It refers to verbal or nonverbal behaviors that inflict anguish, mental health, fear or distress on an older adult.
Neglect- It is the lack of meeting elder’s basic needs. These include food, water, shelter, clothing, hygiene, and essential medical care.
Financial Abuse– this is the case of illegal or unauthorized use of elder’s money, benefits, property, or assets for the benefit of someone other than the older adult.
This problem is a major issue and yet a very little or no support is given to this problem. There are some of the ways through which this problem can be prevented from happening.
Education- educated elder people about the nature and type of abuse. So that when they are facing one, they can identify and take proper steps against the reported abuse.
Respite Care– elder abuse arises due to the overwhelming situation for caregivers due to stress. Respite care can offer relief and assistance with the care of the senior loved ones.
Social Contact and Support- When caregivers and older persons have a strong social network, stress is less likely to reach a critical level. Sharing the responsibility is important, and also having people to talk to is also more important.
Raising Public Awareness- raising public awareness about the problem is very important. The media needs to facilitate the information, for the betterment of the situation of elders. Social media awareness
The world needs to show more solidarity and humanitarian behavior towards elder people. Also more awareness needs to be raised against any form of abuse against older adults and save them from the exploitation that they face.
