🌍 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
A Call to Protect, Respect and Act for Our Elders in Nigeria & the UK
🗓️ Blog Date: 15th June | ✍🏽 By Susan | Powered by EOON Care
Every 15th of June, the world comes together to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) — a crucial moment to reflect on the often-hidden suffering of our elderly and take a bold stand against abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
As our global population ages, the demand to ensure older adults' dignity, safety, and well-being becomes ever more pressing. In Nigeria, this call to action is even more urgent due to evolving family structures, stretched support systems, and the increasing vulnerability of the elderly, particularly in rural communities.
👵🏽 What is Elder Abuse?
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), elder abuse is "a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, within a relationship of trust, causing harm or distress to an older person." This may include:
-
Physical Abuse
-
Emotional or Psychological Harm
-
Sexual Abuse
-
Financial Exploitation
-
Neglect or Abandonment
Shockingly, 1 in 6 people aged 60+ has experienced some form of abuse globally, with higher numbers in institutional settings such as care homes and hospitals (WHO, 2021).
🇳🇬 The Nigerian Reality: Abuse Hidden in Plain Sight
In Nigeria, elder abuse often hides behind cultural silence, societal stigma, and weak reporting systems. Though respect for elders is a cornerstone of many Nigerian traditions, urbanisation, poverty, and strained resources have chipped away at these values.
Many elders — especially women — are accused of witchcraft, denied care, or subjected to financial exploitation. Without structured state welfare or geriatric services, the burden falls on families, and sadly, this can lead to unintentional neglect or harm.
💚 EOON Care: Standing Up for the Elderly
At EOON Care, we are changing the story. As Nigeria’s trusted elder care provider, we offer a safe haven for seniors through our Celine Care Centre, home-based services, and caregiver training programmes.
Our mission is clear:
“To build a society where ageing is seen as a stage of honour, not neglect.”
We advocate for the rights, dignity, and protection of every elderly person. Whether through personalised care, trained caregivers, or active family engagement, EOON Care brings compassionate, culturally sensitive support directly to your loved ones.
📣 What Can We Do? How YOU Can Take Action
Elder abuse is not someone else’s problem — it’s a community issue. Here’s how we can all take action, both in Nigeria and the UK:
✅ Educate yourself and others on the signs of elder abuse
✅ Speak out when you witness neglect or mistreatment
✅ Encourage reporting and support stronger legal protections
✅ Use trusted care providers like EOON Care for your loved ones
✅ Support caregivers through training and respite
✅ Celebrate your elders — their wisdom is a gift, not a burden
📚 Resources & Further Reading
-
NICE Safeguarding Guidance (UK): www.nice.org.uk/guidance
-
EOON Care Safeguarding Resources: www.eooncare.com/resource/guides
-
WHO Elder Abuse Fact Sheet: who.int
📞 EOON Care is Here to Help!
We specialise in elder care services to support family bonding and improve the quality of life for your elderly loved ones.
Let EOON Care be part of your family’s journey toward building stronger connections!
Stay healthy, stay informed!
Contact Us:
📞 Nigeria Office: +234 816 7929 521
🟢 WhatsApp only: +234 816 7929 521
📧 Email: info@eooncare.com
🌐 Website: www.eooncare.com
✊ Say No to Elder Abuse!
Join us on the 15th of June and beyond to break the silence and safeguard our elders’ rights.
📲 Share This Post
Let’s spread awareness far and wide.
#WorldElderAbuseAwarenessDay
#EndElderAbuse
#ProtectOurElders
#EOONCare
#RespectElders
#SayNoToElderAbuse
#SupportSeniors
#ElderRights
#SafeguardOurSeniors