World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is to oppose abuse and suffering inflicted to some of our older generations. Governments, civil society and businesses participate through prevention strategies and policies, and by enforcing laws to address all aspects of elder abuse, and by enabling the greatest possible contribution of our elders to our world. Elder abuse is defined by the United Nations as a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person. A global social issue affecting the health and human rights of millions in developing and developed countries, elder abuse is typically hidden and under-reported globally. Though known prevalence rates range from 1% to 10%, the real extent of elder mistreatment is unknown. Primary health care and social service sectors need to be resourced appropriately to identify and deal with elder abuse, so that it ceases to be under-diagnosed and overlooked.