A large number of older adults face abuse, despite strict laws against it. Today on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, let’s talk about the steps we can take to address this growing issue.
India is one of the worst countries when it comes to dealing with the elderly population. Elderly abuse is a concerning issue in India, despite strict laws against it. A national survey revealed that at least five per cent of India’s elderly population (aged 60 years and above) experienced ill-treatment in 2020. Bihar recorded the highest share of ill-treated elderly persons in the country, according to Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI). The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed every year on June 15th to raise voice against abuse and suffering inflicted to older people.
On the occasion of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, we interacted with Dr Reema Nadig, Co-Founder and COO, KITES Senior Care, to better understand the issue of elder abuse in India and what needs to be done to address it.
Q. How prevalent is elder abuse in India and what is the impact it has on those affected?
In India, elder abuse is a significant concern affecting a substantial number of seniors. This is despite India being a society where taking care of elders is deeply ingrained. The elderly population of India is expected to reach 300 million by 2050, and WHO estimates that about 1 in 6 older Indians (36 million individuals) experience abuse. Elder abuse needs immediate intervention if we are to become a nation that provides the right care for its seniors.
The impact of elder abuse on Indian seniors is profound. It not only leads to physical and psychological suffering but also hampers their overall well-being. Elderly victims of abuse are at a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and declining physical health. Furthermore, elder neglect and abuse often leads to additional burden on healthcare, social isolation, financial exploitation, and reduced quality for older adults in India.
Addressing the prevalence and impact of elder abuse requires a collective effort from all sectors of society. It is crucial that we raise awareness, advocate for policy changes, and provide support to seniors to combat this pressing issue.
Q. How can we combat elder abuse to curtail it?
Elder care begins at home when the immediate family understands changes in behaviour, understands the signs and symptoms, and reacts positively to changing patterns which will require medical attention. Outside our homes, public education and awareness campaigns are crucial in combating elder abuse in India. With a population of over 1.4 billion people, these campaigns play a pivotal role in disseminating knowledge and promoting a culture of respect and care for seniors.
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