When was the last time you saw the world coming together for one particular day?  On June 15, the world will once again come together for the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.  People from around the world will work together on the theme: “My World…Your World…Our World - Free from Elder Abuse.”

The focus of this special day is awareness of elder abuse and putting that awareness into action.  The incidence of abuse and neglect of older adults is under-reported around the world. We must all be aware that it exists in our community and act to prevent the victimization of older adults. 

Older adults need to be aware of the rights they have to be free from abuse or neglect and to be treated with dignity and respect.  They also need to know where to find the services and resources they need.

While some older adults can advocate for themselves, others need our support to stand up for their own rights and to protect themselves from those who would take advantage of them.  Older adults need to learn that there is no shame in speaking up when they do not like how someone is treating them—and that they should call the police and  press charges when someone has victimized them.  

What can we do as individuals to help prevent victimization of the elderly?

The whole community needs to be aware of the scams that target older adults and alert to possible signs of victimization.  Some of the factors that can contribute to the victimization of older adults include isolation and loneliness, being medically frail, or becoming forgetful.  More information is available at: www.gobroomecounty.com/fvpc. 

And we can help assure that older adults have positive connections with other people of all generations by creating opportunities for interaction with others.  Intergenerational experiences can lead to building bonds, where important two-way respect is built between vibrant youth and wise older adults.  While youth will experience and appreciate the positive contributions older adults make in our community, these connections will help reduce the social isolation and neglect of older adults.

You can show your support for preventing older adult victimization by wearing purple on June 15 and doing something kind for an older adult!