Elder Abuse
Perspectives on Elder Abuse
Event
April 2002
Related links
Learn more about the AARP Global Aging Program
NGO World Forum on Ageing
April 9, 2002
Madrid, Spain
Perspectives on Elder Abuse
Abuse of older persons is an international concern. Countries around the world are becoming more aware of its prevalence and the urgent need to develop strategies to combat it. The NGO Forum on Aging, held in conjunction with the United Nations World Assembly in Madrid in April 2002, provided an opportunity for experts from five countries to share their perspectives on elder abuse and how it is being addressed in their countries.
Changed and changing demographics around the world point to an increased potential for abuse. Current studies document that family members overwhelmingly are the abusers. Shifting family economic patterns and inter-generational values brought on by globalization and industrialization exacerbate the potential for abuse. Although the potential for abuse is growing, elder abuse continues to be a hidden problem, frequently cloaked under the shroud of family secrecy. As with other domestic crimes, the stigma of the abuse complicates determining prevalence and identifying solutions.
Despite the problems in addressing abuse, countries are beginning to take steps to implement solutions. Japan, India, Spain, Argentina, and the United States, as reported at the NGO Forum workshop on elder abuse coordinated by AARP, face similar challenges. Perspectives on Elder Abuse, a synthesis of information shared at the Madrid workshop, advances the exchange of effective strategies and policies that may lead to the implementation of worldwide solutions.