World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Elder maltreatment is a significant public health problem. Each year, hundreds of thousands of adults over the age of 60 are abused, neglected, or financially exploited. In the United States alone, over 500,000 older adults are believed to be abused or neglected each year. These statistics are likely an underestimate because many victims are unable or afraid to tell the police, family, or friends about the violence.
Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). WEAAD is in support of the United Nations International Plan of Action acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue. Throughout the world, communities are commemorating this day with special events designed to raise awareness about elder abuse.
To learn more about elder maltreatment and how you can prevent it in your community, visit the CDC website .