WILLEMSTAD - The root of neglect, mistreatment and abuse of older persons is ageism: discrimination based on age. Discrimination in any form is unacceptable. Moreover, the prohibition of discrimination and the principle of equality are enshrined in all major human rights treaties, including the ECHR, ICESCR, ICCPR, UDHR, ILO conventions and others. Article 3 of the Constitution of the State of Curaçao clearly affirms this obligation and it must be upheld.
Fundashon Nos Grandinan is an active member of INPEA, the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse. Thanks to this international network, in 2006 the United Nations officially established World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, observed annually on June 15th. WEAAD is an international day of awareness, urging both communities and governments around the world to take action to combat the abuse, mistreatment and neglect faced by older persons.
There are many forms of abuse and mistreatment that elders may endure. It is as if we forget that, with God's grace, we too will grow old and hope to be treated well; not only by our families, but also by our communities. Here in Curaçao, there have been known cases of elder abuse, including financial, social, verbal, mental, emotional, physical, property-related and outright neglect. Today, some of the attitudes toward our elderly are deeply troubling: robbing them in broad daylight without consequence, making false promises without follow-through, and even using and abusing them.
What can we do to prevent such unacceptable behavior? It starts with each individual being self-reflective and critical of how they treat their own elder(s) or any older persons in our community. Families must regard their elders as the pillars of their household. Senior homes must remember that residents are not only clients, they are kings and queens who deserve dignified care, especially since they contribute financially to these care facilities every month.
Moreover, our parliament and government leaders must create legislation that truly promotes the well-being and safety of our elderly. This includes: adjusting the AOV to reflect inflation, the publication and implementation of the Mandatory Basic Pension Ordinance, recognition of informal caregiving (mantelzorg), reduction of fiscal pressure, promotion of innovative healthcare solutions, improving infrastructure to better accommodate the needs of older persons, modernization of the regulations governing elderly homes to prevent commercial exploitation and authorities, such as the police and prosecution services must take firm action when signs of elder abuse arise, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and victims receive proper protection. Seniors deserve both justice and safety.
Fundashon Nos Grandinan, now approaching its 22nd anniversary, will continue advocating for the rights and dignity of our elders, especially now that, following the Baby Boomer generation, the next large aging group, Generation X, is approaching retirement. By 2030, the effects of the Silver Tsunami will be undeniable.
If nothing was done yesterday, something must be done today, before the bucket overflows.
