PUNE: Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, observed World Elder Abuse Awareness Day through an initiative led by the institution’s Geriatric Medicine Department. The event aimed to raise awareness about elder abuse and promote a society that upholds the civil rights and dignity of older adults.
The event featured an interactive session by Dr. Anu Gaikwad, Professor and Head of the Department of Geriatric Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre on significant topics like Elder Abuse Awareness such as signs and symptoms of elder abuse, understanding of legal rights of old adults and available resources, how can families avoid conflicting situations that will lead to the abuse of the older generation. This was followed by a testimony session from elder abuse survivors and older adults living in harmony with their families. Also, an eye-opening role play was organized by the Department of Community Nursing of Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre.
Dr. Yashraj Patil, Trustee, and Treasurer of Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pimpri, Pune, “Our institution remains committed to community well-being through such initiatives, contributing to the broader effort to raise awareness about elder abuse and the legal rights to combat the situation.”
During the session, Dr. J S Bhawalkar, Dean, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre said, “We must stand united to create a safer and more compassionate environment for our seniors, ensuring that they deserve respect and care they deserve. By hosting such an event we aimed to create awareness on this increasing problem and empower the community to take a stand against it.”
Dr. Anu Gaikwad, Professor and Head of the Department of Geriatric Medicine, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research, said, “Elder abuse is a significant public health issue that affects millions of older adults worldwide. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that older people live in dignity and free from abuse.”
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed annually on June 15th and was established by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. This day is a call to action for different individuals, organizations -and communities to address elder abuse.
