The chair of the Nasinu District Council for Older Persons (DCOP), Randhir Prasad, emphasized the importance of valuing and protecting Fiji’s elderly during the celebrations for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Prasad called for a society that recognizes aging as a treasure, advocating for respect, dignity, and security for seniors. He pointed out the various forms of elder abuse, including physical, emotional, financial abuse, and neglect, urging the community to be vigilant in recognizing signs of abuse.
Prasad stressed that elder abuse often occurs silently, sometimes perpetrated by those who are trusted the most. He encouraged individuals to be proactive in recognizing signs of abuse—such as sudden behavioral changes or unexplained injuries—and to report these instances to the relevant authorities like the Department of Social Welfare or the police. The message resonated with the awareness-building efforts from the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection, which aims to provide services that ensure the safety and dignity of senior citizens.
Previously, Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa highlighted alarming statistics indicating that one in six individuals aged 60 and over may experience some form of elder abuse, a situation intensified during the pandemic. This has garnered a broad-based commitment across various sectors, focusing on community involvement and promoting environments where elderly individuals can thrive, such as support groups and gathering places.
With ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing elder abuse and enhancing the quality of life for seniors, there’s a hopeful outlook for Fiji as more people become aware and ready to act against the issues affecting the elderly community. This potential for change could foster a more compassionate society, dedicated to uplifting its senior population and ensuring that their contributions are celebrated and valued.
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