World Elder Abuse Awareness Day observed on 15th June
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed every year on 15 June. The theme of this day for the year 2022 is 'Digital Equity for All Ages'. Following a request to declare 15 June l as a special day for the elderly, the day began to be celebrated from June 2006. However, the day was officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in the year 2011.
The day promotes awareness of abuse (verbal, physical or emotional) with the elderly population around the world. The day becomes more relevant in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic in the year 2021 that has affected the lives of millions across the world. The pandemic is becoming cause of fear and suffering for older people. In addition to affecting their health, the pandemic is also making older people vulnerable to poverty, discrimination and isolation which are putting them at increased risk of COVID-19 induced complications. Older persons also face age-related discrimination in relation to medical care and life- saving treatments.