June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). It is the main day in the year when the world voices its opposition to the abuse and suffering inflicted on older people.
Nationally, over 500,000 elder adults experience abuse each year. The most common types of abuse are physical, psychological, financial, sexual and neglect. Abusers can be in a position of trust or known to the person, but anyone can be an abuser and abuse can take place anywhere.
Those people who are most at risk are frail women over 70 who live alone.
Our safeguarding team advise anyone who is concerned to speak up: “If you are concerned about an older adult, don’t do nothing. Speak to someone about your concerns. Contact the local authority, or call the police if it’s an emergency.”
Useful contacts:
Click here to find out more from Birmingham Safeguarding Adults Board, Birmingham City Council
Click here to find out more from Solihull Safeguarding Adults Board, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
If you would like to read more about World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, please click here.
Sources:
Age Uk
Birmingham City Council
Action on Elder Abuse
