As a social worker, the Vice-President of IFSW Europe and a Board member of the International Psychogeriatric Association (IPA), I fully endorse the following message of the IPA’s President, William Reichman, MD, on the occasion of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 15 June 2020.
Message from IPA President Dr. William Reichman
The COVID-19 pandemic has starkly revealed many sad truths about the inadequate health, social circumstances and well-being of older adults around the world. As we continue to address the great impact of the global pandemic crisis, we must continue to aggressively advocate to eliminate elder abuse in all of its forms. Every older adult in each community around the world, has the right to be treated with respect and dignity.
Today, 15 June 2020, the International Psychogeriatric Association (IPA) stands together with all advocates to call attention to World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). This annual day of recognition focuses the world’s attention on the need for all of us to take responsibility in preventing elder abuse. Please do your part to spread the word about this matter of vital importance.
WEAAD was launched June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. WEAAD is also in support of the United Nations International Plan of Action acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue.