By Andrew Chadwick
20 March 2008
We should recognize the fact , that if public awareness on Elder Abuse is raised, it will go a long way in reducing elder abuse.
If we could get the following messages out:
- That Elder Abuse is Violation of Basic Human Rights;
- Elder abuse is not tolerated in any language or form;
- Elder Abusers will be exposed, or punished.
- Emotional/Psychological Abuses of the Elderly is also, NOT Accepted.
"Elder Abuse is a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring in any relationship where there is an expectation of trust that causes harm or distress to an older person”. (WHO)
The United Nations, International Plan of Action on Ageing:
The statement includes a set of Eighteen Principles for Older People, covering independence, participation, care, self-fulfillment and dignity. Principle 17 states:
Older persons should be able to live in dignity and security and be free of exploitation and physical or mental abuse.
Even the elderly, has the right to live out their twilight years in peace, security and dignity.
A great percentage of elder abuse cases involved family members – spouses, or adult children. If potential abusers know at the outset, that elder abuse is NOT Acceptable in our society, and that if they abused their spouse or parent(s) they risk prosecution or exposure; they will not be so blatant in their actions.
These messages should be given more prominence in “awareness” campaigns by governments.
Unfortunately, many countries have not done much regarding ‘awareness campaigns’. Often, these same governments would rather set up ‘inquiry’ or ‘studies’ on the issue. Reports from these inquiries or studies are then allowed to ‘gather dust’. No action will be seen for a long time. Perhaps, hoping that the issue will just go away.
In a way, elder abuse is a ‘dying issue’. Wait long enough, the victims just pass on. In most cases, the victims of elder abuse die ‘before their time’. Not many can cope with the stress of being abused, especially, by their own spouse or adult children. However, the problem does not go away.
With the ‘tsunami of Baby-boomers’ joining the seniors rank, the problem will just be compounded.
Let us urge our own government to take immediate action, towards better protection of our seniors. Start with raising public awareness of Elder Abuse.
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