Social Issues
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
- 15 Jun 2022
- 5 min read
For Prelims: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, NGO, United Nations General Assembly, IPOP, Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY), PMVVY, Vayoshreshtha Samman, SAGE initiative
For Mains: Issues Related to Elderly, Government Policies & Interventions
Why in News?
On the eve of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD – 15th June), the Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry has released a report on the state of Elderly People in India.
- The report was based on a survey conducted by a Non-Governmental Organisation across 22 cities.
What is Elder Abuse?
- Elder abuse can be defined as “a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person”.
- It is a global social issue which affects the Health and Human Rights of millions of older persons around the world, and an issue which deserves the attention of the international community.
- Elder abuse is a problem that exists in both developing and developed countries yet is typically underreported globally.
- Prevalence rates or estimates exist only in selected developed countries — ranging from 1% to 10%.
- As such, it demands a global multifaceted response, one which focuses on protecting the rights of older persons.
What are the Key Highlights about the WEAAD?
- About:
- WEAAD occurs every year on 15th June.
- It was officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution 66/127 in 2011.
- Theme for 2022:
- Digital Equity for All Ages.
- Aim:
- To raise awareness about the plight of elderly people who are abused and harmed.
- The primary goal is to develop a better understanding of elder abuse and neglect by raising awareness about the cultural, social, economic, and demographic factors that influence such abuse and neglect.
- To raise awareness about the plight of elderly people who are abused and harmed.
What are the Key Highlights of the Report?
- Economic Conditions:
- India has shown that 47% of elderly people are economically dependent on their families for income and 34% relied on pensions and cash transfers, while 40% of the surveyed people have expressed a desire to work “as long as possible”.
- Citizens willing to Work:
- 71% of senior citizens were not working, while 36% were willing to work and 40% wanted to work “as long as possible”.
- As much as 30% of the elders were willing to volunteer their time for various social causes.
- 71% of senior citizens were not working, while 36% were willing to work and 40% wanted to work “as long as possible”.
- Healthcare Facilities:
- 87% elders reported there is availability of healthcare facilities nearby, however 78% elders mentioned unavailability of app-based online healthcare facilities and a significant 67% elderly reported they do not have any health insurance at this critical stage in their lives and only 13% are covered under government insurance schemes.
- Elder Abuse:
- 59% of elders felt that elder abuse was “prevalent” in society, but 10% reported being victims themselves.
What are the Related Initiatives?
- Integrated Programme for Older Persons (IPOP)
- Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY)
- Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)
- Vayoshreshtha Samman
- Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (MWPSC) Act, 2007
- Elder Line, the first Pan-India toll-free helpline number (14567)
- SAGE (Seniorcare Aging Growth Engine) initiative
Way Forward
- There is a need to pay greater attention to the social security of senior citizens in the country.
- The Centre must come up with a comprehensive preventive package, which provides awareness regarding common geriatric problems with a focus on nutrition, exercise, and the promotion of mental well-being.
