Each year on June 15th, the world recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD)—a day proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to bring global attention to the mistreatment of older adults and to promote dignity, respect, and safety for seniors everywhere.
Here in Alberta, the issue is closer than many realize. The Alberta Government estimates that 1 in 10 older adults may experience abuse, yet less than a third of those cases are ever reported. Elder abuse can take many forms—financial, emotional, physical, sexual, or neglect—and often goes unnoticed or unaddressed.
This year’s theme, "Grow the Conversation… Recognize the Signs, Reduce the Risk", reminds us that awareness is the first step toward prevention. At Sage Seniors Association, we are committed to fostering open dialogue, educating our community, and providing support and resources for older adults at risk of or experiencing abuse.
WEAAD Events at Sage and Beyond
To honour this important week and spark community engagement, we invite you to participate in the following events:
June 11 @ 11am – Be Bold: Aging with Attitude
Join a dynamic panel of experts and advocates as they discuss elder abuse, ageism, and the importance of healthy aging. This event is designed to inform, inspire, and mobilize. Register Here
June 12 @ 10am–12pm – WEAAD Education Event at Sage
An in-person session focused on elder abuse, ageism, and how to be a responsible bystander. Open to everyone—come learn how you can make a difference in your community.
See attached poster for details
June 15 – High Level Bridge Lit in Purple
Watch the High Level Bridge glow purple in solidarity with older adults affected by abuse.
Growing the conversation starts with each of us. Whether you attend an event, educate yourself, or simply check in on an older adult in your life, every action helps create a safer, more compassionate community.
If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, Sage is here to help. Reach out—support is available.
#WEAAD2025 #GrowTheConversation #ElderAbuseAwareness #SageSupportsSeniors
A significant development in the global effort to protect older adults occurred earlier this year. On April 3, 2025, United Nations Member States in the Human Rights Council adopted a landmark resolution to create a new intergovernmental working group tasked with drafting an international, legally binding instrument—a UN convention—on the human rights of older persons. This decision marks a pivotal step toward enhancing the protection of the human rights of older people globally.
This convention aims to provide greater clarity and essential guidance to states on how to better promote and protect older persons' rights, helping to eliminate ageism and age discrimination and ensuring that older persons can seek redress for violations of their rights.
