World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) falls on June 15 each year. Designated by the United Nations, WEAAD is of vital importance to highlight the epidemic of abuse that occurs every day to older adults in the community. We all deserve to lead happy and healthy lives free from abuse as we age, yet older people are mistreated more often than we think. Take action to raise awareness toward prevention on this important social justice issue!
Fast Facts on Elder Abuse
- Around 1 in 6 older people experience some form of abuse, a figure higher than previously estimated and predicted to rise as populations age worldwide.
- Rates of abuse may be higher for older people living in institutions than in the community.
- Elder abuse can lead to serious physical injuries and long-term psychological consequences.
- Elder abuse is predicted to increase as many countries are experiencing rapidly ageing populations.
- The global population of people aged 60 years and older will more than double, from 900 million in 2015 to about 2 billion in 2050
The National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) at USC created a great video highlighting the practical solutions to address the injustice of elder abuse.
