Taking Care of the Those Who Needs Us the Most – Our Elderly

As we age, our coping mechanisms weaken and we grow dependent on others to take care of us. On the occasion of the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day which was marked yesterday, we are throwing light on the situation of taking care of our elderly in the Maldives. 
 
The occasion is celebrated as a day to spread awareness about the mental, physical, and verbal abuse directed towards the elderly and to advocate against such actions that take place in the community. As we all know, it is the responsibility of every individual to treat our elderly with respect and kindness and to fulfil their wishes to the best of our abilities. Unfortunately, some elderly face troublesome situations at home, in public, and within the community as well in the Maldives. 
 
In the year 2020 alone, Family Protection Agency received reports of 23 cases of domestic violence against elderly people. These included cases of verbal and psychological abuse, and damage to property. It is high time that we stand against such unacceptable behavior and pledge to protect our elderly. 
 
It all starts with education at home and in the schools. Our respectable manners in treating our elderly rightly will be observed and learnt by our children. Specially during trying times like the global pandemic we are facing, checking up on our grandparents, our elderly parents, neighbors and so on must be a part of our daily routines. Our responsible actions will play a major role in ensuring that they are kept safe from contracting the virus.  
 
If you know an elderly who may require support to access justice, report the cases of domestic violence to the hotline number 1421 of Ministry of Gender, Family and Social Services or to the police at 119. Our elderly is key to strengthening our relationships with our cultures and traditions.