Some issues deserve more than just a date on the calendar. Respect, care, and protection for older adults are among them.


Every June 15 marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. This day seeks to bring visibility to a reality that often remains hidden within homes, institutions, or dependent relationships.


The date was recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2011. However, the initiative began in 2006, promoted by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) and the World Health Organization.


Its purpose is clear: to draw attention to the mistreatment of older people and promote their health, well-being, autonomy, and dignity. It also calls on governments, organizations, families, and communities to develop better prevention and protection tools.


Why it is important to talk about elder abuse


Abuse in old age can take different forms. It does not always leave a visible mark or involve physical aggression. It can also include emotional abuse, abandonment, neglect, isolation, financial abuse, or unjustified control over personal decisions.


Some older adults do not report it because of fear, shame, financial or emotional dependence. Others fear being left alone or causing a family conflict. They may even struggle to identify what they are experiencing as a form of abuse.


That is why this date serves as a powerful collective call. It reminds us that paying attention, listening without judgment, and offering help can change a life.


The purple ribbon represents this global day. When you see it on June 15, remember that it is not merely a symbol: it is also an invitation to notice what is happening around you.


Signs that an older person may need help


Take a moment to think about the older adults in your life. Does anyone seem quieter, more fearful, or more isolated than usual? Is someone controlling their money, calls, or visits for no clear reason?


An isolated sign does not necessarily confirm a situation of abuse. However, it is worth paying attention when sudden changes or several warning signs appear together, such as:



  • Frequent injuries or unclear explanations for bruises and falls.

  • Fear, anxiety, or discomfort around a particular person.

  • Lack of hygiene, food, medication, or basic care.

  • Sudden isolation from friends and family.

  • Unusual bank transactions or an unexpected loss of belongings.

  • Decisions made by others without considering their wishes.


If something concerns you, approach them calmly and speak with them in private. Avoid pressuring or interrogating them. You can begin with a simple question: “You seem different lately. Is there anything I can help you with?”


If there is immediate danger, contact your local emergency services. If it is not an emergency, seek guidance from social services, health centers, or organizations specializing in the protection of older adults.


How to respect and care for older adults every day


You do not need to wait until June 15 to take part. Everyday gestures also help build a more respectful society. Here are some practical ways to do your part:



  1. Practice active listening. Put your phone aside, look at the person, and allow them to finish speaking. Their memories, concerns, and opinions deserve genuine attention, not rushed listening.

  2. Be patient. Some activities or conversations may require more time. Giving them space without showing annoyance conveys affection and helps prevent them from feeling like a burden.

  3. Call and visit often. A message, phone call, or brief visit can ease loneliness. There is no need to plan anything extraordinary: simply asking how their day went can already be meaningful.

  4. Help with technology without ridiculing them. Explain each step calmly. You can write down simple instructions or set up shortcuts. The goal is to support their autonomy, not do everything in their place.

  5. Value their opinion. Ask what they want and respect their decisions whenever possible. Being supportive does not mean being controlling.

  6. Offer companionship at medical appointments. If they accept your help, go with them and take notes. Try to ensure they continue participating in the conversation, and do not speak as though they were not present. To learn more about preventive care, you can read why it is important for a doctor to check your heart rhythm.

  7. Share enjoyable activities. Cooking, walking, looking at photographs, caring for plants, or playing cards strengthens the bond. Spending time across generations can also be very valuable; you may also be interested in learning why grandparents can benefit from spending time with their grandchildren.

  8. Pay attention to small gestures of courtesy. Saying hello, giving thanks, offering a seat, or asking before helping are simple details that acknowledge the other person's presence and dignity.

  9. Avoid infantilizing them. Do not use a patronizing tone or assume that an older person does not understand. Age does not erase their identity, preferences, or right to make decisions.

  10. Step in when there is disrespect. If someone humiliates, ignores, or mistreats an older person, do not normalize the situation. Set a firm boundary and seek support when necessary.


Caring without taking away autonomy


Sometimes, with the intention of protecting someone, family members end up making every decision for them. Healthy care is not about imposing, but about asking, explaining, and reaching agreements.


Before moving their belongings, managing their money, or arranging an appointment, talk with the person. Ask what they need and how they would prefer to receive help. Even when there are limitations, it is important to include them as much as possible.


It is also worth examining everyday prejudices. Phrases such as “you are too old for that” or “you cannot understand this” may seem harmless, but they reduce a person to their age. Every older adult has a different story, personality, and set of abilities.


Prevention also begins within the family


Protecting older adults means maintaining a network of contact and not leaving all the responsibility to one person. Caregiver exhaustion also needs attention, rest, and support. Sharing tasks and seeking professional help when needed can prevent situations of stress or neglect.


It is also helpful to discuss medical, financial, and family matters in advance. Talking about these issues respectfully prevents confusion and makes it possible to understand the person's wishes.


Brain care is also part of well-being in old age. If you would like to learn more about preventive habits, you can consult which changes can help protect brain health and improve quality of life.


Respecting older adults means recognizing who they are today, not only what they did in the past. We all deserve to reach this stage of life feeling heard, safe, and loved.


This June 15, and throughout the year, look around you. A long-overdue call, a calm conversation, or timely intervention can be far more important than you imagine. 💜