June 15 is recognized by the United Nations as ‘World Elder Abuse Awareness Day’ and is marked world over. HelpAge India, which has been front-runner in advocating for elder rights for the past 45 years, has been voicing concerns on the issue of abuse and ageism faced by our elderly. Each year HelpAge India marks this day with the release of a nationwide report on June 14 th to spread awareness and understand the rights and needs of elderly in India.

This year, the report is titled “Women & Ageing: Invisible or Empowered?’ which focuses on older women, one of the most neglected segments of the population. The 5000-sample size report, covers rural and urban areas in 40 districts (18 aspirational), 5 metro cities and 2 Union Territories. It will help us understand the ground realities pertaining to economic status, work and volunteering opportunities, digital and social inclusion, elder abuse, Maintenance of Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, and many related aspects.