“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day” is observed every year on 15 June. It is the only United Nations Day dedicated to exposing the abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older people, a crisis that remains largely hidden, even as it affects millions of households around the world. In 2026, it presents fresh opportunities for communities, advocates, care providers and policymakers to confront a problem that grows more urgent each year, not just on 15th June, but throughout the entire year. Afterall, elder abuse does not begin or end on a single day. Elder abuse refers to any single or repeated action, or the failure to act that causes harm or distress to an older person, particularly within a relationship where they should feel safe and able to trust the other person.
Of 15 June: When our proverbs respect age but our actions fall short, By Margaret Uddin Ojeahere
