Purple will not be just a colour today, but rather a global symbol to end elderly abuse and neglect.

The public is being encouraged to get involved in the International World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by wearing the colour purple or a purple ribbon in order to raise awareness on the cause. It is the second time International World Elder Abuse Awareness Day has been recognised and as a result elder abuse largely remains an “unspoken problem” said Director of Human Affairs, Myra Virgil.

She said: “Throughout the world, abuse and neglect of older persons is largely unrecognised or treated as an unspoken problem. Unfortunately no community or country in the world is immune from this. Elder abuse can take many forms, physical, emotional, financial exploitation, neglect and violation of rights. Raising awareness is central to creating a world that is free from elder abuse.”

People of all ages should not only wear purple, but also use this day to gather information and guidance on elderly abuse from institutions, such as Age Concern and the National Office for Seniors.

At a press conference yesterday, Age Concern’s Executive Director, Claudette Fleming said: “The presence of elder abuse in its many forms within the community of Bermuda is an unfortunate reality.

“This abuse can take place within the family home, or within institutions charged with the care of older persons, in the market place where older persons are the consumers of goods and services or even at the policy level where the needs of our country’s older citizens can sometimes be ignored or seen as a lesser national priority”.

The Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs, Wayne Perinchief, was present at the press conference yesterday to sign a proclamation, declaring June 15, 2007 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

In addition, he will make a statement in the House of Assembly today acknowledging government’s duty to address issues on elder abuse.

Purple ribbons can be picked up from various Government offices, selected pharmacies, the General Post Office, King Edward Memorial Hospital, various doctors offices on Point Finger Road and at Age Concern and the National Office for Seniors.