The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission has expressed grave concerns regarding the neglect and mistreatment of elderly family members, particularly after they have transferred their assets to their children. Director Loukinikini Lewaravu highlighted alarming reports of abuse, including instances where older individuals are served stale food, denied necessary medical care, and have their social welfare benefits misappropriated.
In a particularly disturbing case, an 87-year-old woman was reportedly assaulted and abandoned at the Commission’s office by her own children. Another case involved an elderly woman left for months in the stress ward of a public hospital due to family neglect. Lewaravu noted that these incidents reflect a broader societal issue, representing a breakdown in empathy and cultural responsibility, as they contradict the Pacific values that traditionally honor and respect the elderly.
Similar sentiments were reinforced during discussions surrounding World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, where government officials such as Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, underscored the critical need for community vigilance against elder abuse. Reports indicated that two-thirds of abusers are the adult children of the victims, emphasizing the urgency for families and communities to recognize these troubling patterns.
The government is proactively working to improve the care of seniors through community initiatives aimed at fostering involvement and awareness, recognizing the invaluable contributions of the elderly. With the commitment of government officials, community leaders, and citizens, there is hope that the culture of respect and care for older individuals can be revitalized, ensuring that they enjoy their golden years in dignity and safety. These efforts promise to create a supportive environment where elderly citizens are valued and no longer face neglect or mistreatment from their families.
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