World Elder Abuse Awareness Day raises awareness of abuse, neglect, and mistreatment that can affect older people in homes, care settings and communities. It highlights the importance of dignity, safety and respect as people age—whether at home, in care or within families. The day also encourages communities to recognise warning signs and to support older people through clear planning, advocacy and safeguards.
Why it matters
- Elder abuse can be physical, emotional, financial, social, or take the form of neglect, and is often hidden or unreported
- Older people may rely on others for care, finances, housing or decision-making, increasing vulnerability to abuse
- Abuse most commonly occurs within relationships of trust, including family, carers or service providers
- Financial abuse is one of the fastest-growing forms of elder abuse in Australia
- Social isolation can increase risk and reduce opportunities for abuse to be detected early
Raising awareness helps communities recognise the warning signs of elder abuse and reinforces the importance of safeguards, transparency and accountability as people age.
Event Co-ordination
International
- United Nations
Global leadership in raising awareness of elder abuse, promoting human rights, and supporting international action to protect older people.
Australia
- Elder Abuse Awareness Day Australia
Seniors Rights Victoria co-ordinates the Australian campaign platform supporting World Elder Abuse Awareness Day through public awareness, education and national coordination. - Elder Abuse Action Australia
National peak body working to prevent elder abuse through advocacy, policy leadership, research and education across Australia.
