NNEDV Helps Spread Awareness about Elder Abuse
June 14, 2015
On June 15, the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2015. This international day of awareness is aimed at educating people about the impact of elder abuse.
Elder abuse is the abuse of “an older person either within a relationship where there is an expectation of trust and/or when an older person is targeted based on age or disability.”
This abuse comes in many forms, such as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as neglect, financial exploitation, and stalking. Tragically, many of these cases can end in homicide and/or suicide. NNEDV stands in solidarity with victims of elder abuse and the movement to end it.
NNEDV urges you to continue to recognize and combat elder abuse beyond June 15 for the health and safety of our older adult population. Though elder abuse is estimated to affect more than five million people each year, it may be rarely prosecuted or reported.
There are many things you can do to raise awareness and combat elder abuse:
- View and share this series of infographics on elder abuse from the National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Later Life (NCALL).
- Educate yourself about the basics of elder abuse.
- Watch this PSA on stalking in later life, from NCALL and the Stalking Resource Center (SRC).
- Register to attend an “Economic Insecurity and Abuse in Later Life” webinar, hosted by Wider Opportunities for Women.
- Attend a World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event in your area.
- If you’re in Washington, DC, attend the First Global Summit.