World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Older people deserve dignity, respect, and protection — always.
About
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15 shines a light on the physical, emotional, financial, sexual, and neglect-based abuse experienced by older adults — a global problem that affects an estimated one in six older people every year. Elder abuse is vastly underreported: victims are often isolated, dependent on the very person abusing them, or afraid that reporting will lead to worse outcomes. Abuse occurs in private homes, care facilities, and communities, and is perpetrated by family members, caregivers, and institutions alike. Ageism — the systematic discrimination against older people — creates the cultural conditions in which elder abuse can thrive. The day calls on governments to strengthen legal protections, fund adult protective services, train healthcare workers to identify abuse, and build public awareness about what abuse looks like and how to report it. As the global population ages, elder abuse is a public health challenge that will only grow if not addressed.
History
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was launched on June 15, 2006, by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization. The UN General Assembly formally recognised the day in 2011 and designated it as an official UN observance in 2013. The Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (2002) provides the policy framework for many elder rights initiatives linked to this day.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
Elder abuse is significantly underreported in the US. Adult Protective Services agencies are chronically underfunded, and financial exploitation of older adults is a growing crisis. World Elder Abuse Day prompts campaigns from the National Center on Elder Abuse and state agencies to improve detection and response.
KR South Korea
South Korea's rapidly ageing population and strong Confucian values around filial piety create a complex environment for elder abuse. While respect for elders is culturally mandated, abuse does occur — often within families — and is stigmatised to the point of severe underreporting.
JP Japan
Japan has the world's oldest population by proportion, and elder care is a major policy priority. Elder abuse awareness has grown in Japan alongside the expansion of the Long-Term Care Insurance system, and the day is used to train care workers and educate families.
How to Participate
- 01Learn the warning signs of elder abuse — physical, financial, and emotional
- 02Check in on an elderly neighbour or relative who may be isolated
- 03Advocate for better funding of adult protective services in your area
- 04Volunteer with a visiting programme for isolated older adults
Frequently asked questions
When is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day?+
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed annually on June 15. The date is fixed each year — June 15 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day?+
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15 shines a light on the physical, emotional, financial, sexual, and neglect-based abuse experienced by older adults — a global problem that affects an estimated one in six older people every year. Elder abuse is vastly underreported: victims are often isolate…
Is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day a public holiday?+
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in World Elder Abuse Awareness Day?+
Learn the warning signs of elder abuse — physical, financial, and emotional Check in on an elderly neighbour or relative who may be isolated Advocate for better funding of adult protective services in your area These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Day?+
Global — WHO and INPEA initiative.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
US United States
United Kingdom
Australia
Canada
KR South Korea
JP Japan