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.
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 to the WEAAD, the UN also observes an International Day of Older Persons on October 1 every year to recognize the contributions of older persons and to examine issues that affect their lives.
