World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is dedicated toward promoting a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons. Elder abuse affects more than 1 million Americans 60 and over every year. Elder abuse can include physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, neglect and/or financial exploitation.
WEAAD was initiated in 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. The United Nations International Plan of Action also acknowledges the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue. WEAAD serves as a call-to-action to raise awareness of cultural, social, economic and demographic processes that affect elder abuse and neglect. Click here to learn more about WEAAD and how to get involved here.
If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, the Collaboration Against Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation (CAANE) suggests calling Adult Protective Services at 937-225-4906.