New Delhi (NVI): Elder abuse is a global social issue that affects the health and human rights of millions of older people around the world. So, on this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, we need to pay attention to the problems of elderly people.
The main objective of the day is to voice opposition to the abuse and suffering inflicted on elderly people.
The day was officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2011 following a request by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA), who first established the commemoration in 2006.
The abuse of elderly people is one of the least addressed problems in the world, but it is fast gaining attention. Issues of physical, emotional and financial abuse of elders needs to be addressed. It is a problem that exists in both developing and developed countries yet is typically underreported globally.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2020 is being observed with the theme, “Safeguard older persons during COVID-19 and beyond.”
According to United Nations (UN) report, an estimated 66 per cent of people aged 70 and over have at least one underlying condition, placing them at increased risk of severe impact from COVID-19.
COVID-19 pandemic may significantly lower older persons’ incomes and living standards. Currently, less than 20 per cent of older people of retirement age receive a pension, the UN said in a statement.
Although all age groups are at risk of contracting COVID-19, older persons are at a significantly higher risk of mortality and severe disease following infection. It is crucial to minimize these risks by addressing the needs of human rights of elderly persons in our efforts to fight the pandemic.
Response to COVID-19 is an opportunity to make inclusive, equitable and age-friendly society guided by the 2030 Agenda For Sustainable Development To Leave No One Behind, the UN said.
