World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, June 15, 2023
Governor Wes Moore has proclaimed June 15, 2023 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Older adults deserve to be treated with respect and dignity to enable them to serve as leaders, mentors, volunteers and vital participating members of our communities. In 2006 the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse, in support of the United Nations International Plan of Action, proclaimed a day to recognize the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue.
As our population lives longer, we are presented with an opportunity to think about our collective needs and future as a nation. Ageism and social isolation are major causes of elder abuse in the United States. Recognizing that it is up to all of us, to ensure that proper social structures exist so people can retain community and societal connections, reducing the likelihood of abuse. Preventing abuse of older adults through maintaining and improving social supports like senior centers, human services, housing, and transportation will allow everyone to continue to live as independently as possible and contribute to the life and vibrancy of our communities. Please join us in recognizing and celebrating older adults and their ongoing contributions to the success and vitality of our community.