Of 15 June: When our proverbs respect age but our actions fall short, By Margaret Uddin Ojeahere

June 15 marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, an observance dedicated to exposing the pervasive crisis of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This issue, though affecting millions of households globally, remains largely hidden from public view.

The United Nations recognizes this day as a critical opportunity for communities and advocates worldwide to confront the problem. It serves as a reminder that despite societal proverbs that may honor age, the actions taken to protect older individuals often fall short. This disconnect highlights a significant gap between cultural respect for elders and the practical measures needed to ensure their safety and well-being.

As the world population ages, the challenge of elder abuse becomes increasingly urgent. The day encourages a renewed focus on prevention, intervention, and support systems for victims. It calls for greater awareness and action to ensure that older adults are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve, free from harm and exploitation.