Elder Abuse: A Hidden Epidemic

By Ronit Sharma

There's a silent epidemic that has been ravaging the elderly population in India for far too long.

It's an issue that's often swept under the rug and ignored by the larger society, but its

consequences are far-reaching and devastating. I'm talking about elder abuse - a cruel and

inhumane act that robs our seniors of their dignity, autonomy, and sometimes, even their lives.

Elder abuse can take many forms, from physical, psychological, emotional, and financial abuse

to neglect and abandonment. It can happen in any setting - at home, in an institutional setting,

or even in public spaces. It's a complex issue that's fueled by a range of factors, from ageism

and patriarchal values to poverty, social isolation, and lack of legal protection. The statistics

are staggering. According to a study by HelpAge India, 50% of the elderly population in India

By Ronit Sharma