Thursday, June 15 2023 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD)
This day was formed with the thought of raising awareness for the mistreatment and abuse of the elderly which is increasing on a day to day basis. This is an issue that must be looked at, while millions of elderly people around the world are being abused. According to the United Nations one out of every six people that are elderly have become victims of abuse. Abuse can range in many different ways, physical, mental, sexual, financially, neglect, exploitation,violence, etc.There are many times that the abuse is not reported, this could be from fear, shame, even being unaware that there is help out there. All elderly people have the right to live in a comfortable, safe place in society with dignity.
WEAAD does not tolerate abuse of any kind towards the elderly. In 2006 the International Network for the prevention of Elder Abuse made June 15th of every year as WEAAD (World Elder Abuse Awareness Day) . Since this day was formed it is observed by many people including governments and different organizations around the globe with different events, workshops, and campaigns.
There are times that seniors need an advocate to help them with their rights, and privacy. We could be those people for them, we all have to make sure that elder abuse does not happen. If you see something that is not right and you can’t stop it, say something, let’s make sure that seniors can live the full life free of abuse as they should be able to. Remember, we will all be elderly one day.
Whitevalley Resource Center would like to thank our sponsors, The United Way, and Interior Health.
