World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

On June 15, we observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the care and protection of older adults. They are vulnerable, prone to fears, and fragile, often becoming targets of fraudulent activities.

History

This holiday was established in 2006, supported by the World Health Organization and various associations dedicated to preventing physical and other forms of abuse against the elderly. The purpose of the event is to inform people about various aspects affecting the lives of older adults, including demographics, financial status, medical care, and socialization. This information helps caring citizens provide assistance and join volunteer societies to offer targeted support.

Interesting Facts

• 6% of older Americans suffer from mistreatment or other forms of abuse.
• To identify criminal acts against the elderly, observe their condition closely.
• It is necessary to contact the police, a lawyer, or social services with evidence: photos, recordings of rude conversations, and complaints.
• Most cases of violence occur at home behind closed doors.
• When elderly individuals are subjected to aggression and cruelty by family members, these cases are particularly difficult to identify and prove, but it is worth trying!

Extortion and embezzlement of benefits are common types of criminal activity against elderly and incapacitated citizens.

How to Take Part

If you witness cases of crimes against the elderly, inform the police by calling the emergency number. Spread information about common types of fraud to help reduce the number of people fooled by criminals. Become a member of a volunteer team to help elderly individuals who are without family support, facing difficult diseases, and experiencing a lack of money, communication, and attention.

Unscrupulous individuals often seek to appropriate money from the elderly by gaining access to their bank accounts under the guise of helping them. To prevent this, it is crucial to monitor such cases and ensure criminals are punished.

When is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in 2024?

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed on June 15 each year.

Observations