World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed annually on June 15. This observance was created to shed light on the abuse and neglect that many older people experience. On this day, the focus is on highlighting how our cultural, socioeconomic, and demographic processes can lead to elder abuse and neglect. The abuse may occur in many forms including physical, sexual, financial, psychological, and social.

The number of Saint Lucians who are 65 and over represent 9.5% of the total population. This means that we have an ageing population and can expect to see a larger number of seniors in the upcoming years.

Living longer, however, does not necessarily mean living better. Our older population is particularly vulnerable to neglect and abuse, with members being often unable to defend themselves or get help, as fear, illness and infirmity can be major barriers for them. The Prime Minister established the Elderly Affairs Unit in our Ministry, to coordinate the delivery of services to older persons across all sectors, and to develop the policies and programmes that will empower and protect our older population.

Our Ministry will continue to strengthen our current services, such as Universal Health Coverage and the Golden 80 Plus programme, while working to expand and improve other services, in collaboration with all stakeholders and to integrate health and wellness into our national strategies. We will promote healthy and active ageing, by reframing our view of ageing and ensuring that every older person thrives. The Elderly Affairs Unit will coordinate the development of evidence-based programmes, work with private and public sector organisations