Dear Esteemed Members,<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every year on 15 June, the world observes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) to highlight the silent suffering of millions of elderly individuals across the Globe. As President of the Mohali Senior Citizens Association, I believe it is our duty and responsibility to advocate for this critical issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Elder abuse can manifest in many forms\u2014physical, emotional, financial, neglect and even social isolation. It occurs in homes, institutions and communities, often at the hands of those whom the elderly trust the most. According to the World Health Organisation, 1 in 6 older adults experiences some form of abuse. Unfortunately, many of these cases go unreported due to fear, shame or lack of awareness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a society that traditionally reveres its elders, it is profoundly troubling that such mistreatment persists. With the rise of nuclear families, urbanisation and digital dependency, seniors are becoming increasingly vulnerable, not only to abuse but also to loneliness and neglect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The theme of WEAAD this year reminds us to “Uplift Voices, Break the Silence.” It encourages open conversations and proactive community action. We, as members of the senior community and the larger society, must promote awareness, advocate for our rights and ensure mechanisms are in place to prevent and address abuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the Mohali Senior Citizens Association, we have always championed dignity, inclusion, and empowerment of seniors. Our seminars, wellness sessions and legal awareness programs are designed to educate our members and offer them a platform to express themselves freely. But the battle against elder abuse cannot be fought in isolation. It demands the collective will of families, communities, legal systems and governments. Young people must be sensitised early on about the value of ageing and the rights of the elderly. Respect, after all, begins at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Certain practical steps to protect elders from potential abuse:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Maintain regular contact with family, friends and trusted community members. Isolation can increase vulnerability to abuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Keep bank details confidential. Take help from a trusted family member or financial advisor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Know your legal rights and the resources available, such as helplines, legal aid and senior support services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Do not hesitate to report suspicious behaviour or abuse to authorities or helplines (Elder Helpline 14567 is a toll-free number operational from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Regular health check-ups and an active lifestyle can help you stay strong and alert, reducing the risk of abuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At Mohali Senior Citizens Association, we are committed to the protection, dignity and empowerment of seniors. We urge all community members, institutions and authorities to act collectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let us use this day not just to create awareness but to take action\u2014by checking in on an elderly neighbour, by listening without judgment, by speaking up when we see something wrong and by committing to a world where growing old is not a fear but a blessing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Together, we can ensure that growing old should be a celebration of life\u2019s journey, not a struggle for basic rights. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yours as Ever,<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Brig JS Jagdev<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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