Protecting older persons from abuse and ensuring they live with dignity, respect, and security remains a national priority as Saint Lucia joins the international community in observing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2026.
Officials are calling for stronger action, deeper partnerships, and heightened public vigilance to safeguard some of society’s most vulnerable citizens, as global concern continues to grow over the prevalence of abuse against older persons.
Observed annually on June 15, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day draws attention to the need to protect older persons and ensure equitable access to services and opportunities. International estimates suggest that roughly one in six adults over the age of 60 experience some form of abuse each year, with experts warning that many cases remain unreported.
Locally, Minister for Equity Emma Hippolyte said the Government is moving to strengthen its institutional and policy response to ageing and elder protection.
In an address delivered on June 15, she noted that the Division of Older Persons within the Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons will play a leading role in shaping national policy.
“The division of older persons within the Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons will lead the national response to the issues of our ageing society and introduce the national policy for older persons to the Cabinet of Ministers,” Hippolyte said.
She emphasized that efforts to prevent elder abuse must go beyond policy statements and translate into practical safeguards.
“Elder abuse prevention must be practical, enforceable and effective,” she stated.
Hippolyte also highlighted the importance of collaboration across sectors to ensure that protective measures are meaningful and sustainable.
“We are building alliances to ensure that prevention is not a slogan, but a lived reality,” she said.
The Minister underscored the need for a cultural shift in how society views and treats older persons, stressing that respect is fundamental to prevention.
“Let us remember, prevention begins with respect,” Hippolyte said. “When we honor the wisdom, contributions, and humanity of all the persons, we create a culture where abuse cannot thrive.”
She called on Saint Lucians to move beyond raising awareness and to take concrete steps to protect older persons in their families and communities.
“So today, I call upon every Saint Lucian to move beyond awareness,” she urged.
The observance comes as governments and international organizations continue to warn that elder abuse, often hidden within households and care environments, remains a growing global concern requiring urgent and sustained action.