Some special days are cause for celebration. Christmas or even lesser-known days like National Donut Day may inspire people to do something special. Other times, there are special days that serve to remember sacrifices made by others or tragedies that affected a culture.
There are also days intended to promote awareness and help address different societal issues. While it may not be a widely-celebrated holiday, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an important date that helps draw attention to an issue that often does not receive the social and political focus that it deserves.
When is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day?
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is recognized internationally on June 15th of each year. Numerous organizations host educational events and run local advertisements to remind people of the prevalence of elder abuse and the rights of older adults.
Local news reporters may investigate specific types of elder abuse or certain local facilities that have become notorious for substandard conditions. The focus on the abuse of vulnerable elder adults is important. Older adults struggling with physical health challenges or cognitive decline are often not in a good position to advocate for themselves. They need other people to recognize their perilous circumstances and intervene on their behalf.
Elder abuse comes in many forms
Many people oversimplify the idea of elder abuse. They think about physical violence and little else. Some people do physically abuse vulnerable older adults. Family members who act as caregivers may become resentful. Employees at nursing homes and similar facilities may have anger issues that affect the standard of care they provide.
Elder abuse can also involve emotional or psychological abuse. Name calling, gaslighting and manipulation can all undermine an older adult’s confidence and emotional stability. Sexual violence toward older adults is also a safety concern, especially in residential care facilities.
Financial abuse is also somewhat common. Workers might steal from people when supporting them in their homes or while providing support services in a long-term care facility. People might target older adults for fraud schemes or manipulate them into changing their estate plans.
The people closest to older adults need to be aware of the risk of elder abuse. Family members who usually seem trustworthy and professional facilities with excellent reputations can engage in abusive conduct that harms vulnerable older adults. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day can help educate people about this major concern and inspire them to speak up about their suspicions.
Taking legal action on behalf of an elder adult is sometimes the most effective way to address any type of elder abuse. People who become aware of the risks older adults face can become advocates for their loved ones if they experience mistreatment.