World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) - June 15th, 2010 - Toronto

TORONTO, June 4 /CNW/ - Abuse and neglect of older persons is an alarming global problem that is largely under-estimated, under-recognized and under-reported. It remains an 'invisible' yet escalating issue in every community. Research indicates that public education campaigns such as World Elder Abuse Awareness day (WEAAD) are successful in raising the awareness and generating community action.

On June 15th 2010 we call for action across the world to celebrate WEAAD. On World Day activities are held to acknowledge the severity, the prevalence, and transfer local, national and regional knowledge and resources. Raising awareness is fundamental in the prevention of elder abuse and the elimination of the stereotypes that plague older adults.

The International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) in collaboration with the International Federation on Ageing (IFA) and with the support of the governments of Ontario and Canada is proud to host the 2010 WEAAD in Toronto, Ontario. Over 100 delegates representing government, non governmental organizations and professionals working and interested in the field of ageing will gather on this important day to debate, discuss and describe new initiatives that work toward a world where older people will be protected against neglect and abuse.

In special recognition of the intergenerational nature of WEAAD, students from five national and one international (India) school will demonstrate their understanding and solutions to the neglect and abuse of older people.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an initiative that was conceptualized and inaugurated in Canada in 2006 and gains greater world wide recognition every year. This year the event will be held at the University of Toronto, Faculty Club, 41 Willcocks Street, Toronto.

For further information: MEDIA CONTACT: Dr. Elizabeth Podnieks, 2010 Chair and Founder of WEAAD, Telephone: [phone], Email: [email protected]