What is WEAAD?

15 June is the day designated by the United Nations as the international day of action when the whole world voices its opposition to the abuse of older people.  World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is represented by the colour purple – which denotes wisdom, dignity, independence and creativity.

Elder abuse is an often hidden problem and includes psychological, financial, social, physical, and sexual abuse.  The definition in use by the World Health Organisation is:

“Elder Abuse is a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person”

During the week ending 15th June we are calling for all communities across Queensland to join the rest of the world in ‘going purple’ for WEAAD.

Get Involved

WEAAD is an opportunity for individuals, families, groups and organisations to speak out against elder abuse. By doing something purple in June and telling people ‘why’, links into the world-wide elder abuse campaign for WEAAD. Whether it is making a purple cake for morning tea at work, giving purple flowers to an older person, or wearing purple to work – no attempt at raising awareness is too small.

  • Organise or promote a purple themed picnic or sausage sizzle in your park.
  • Organise and promote a purple themed awareness raising walk.
  • Invite a guest speaker to discuss the issue of elder abuse.
  • Wear purple to work during the week leading up to the 15th of June.
  • Use purple lighting in your community to highlight the issue of elder abuse.
  • Create an awareness display in your workplace, school, council, library or shopping centre.
  • Use purple balloons at a purple themed morning tea at your workplace.
  • Use social networking such as Facebook and Twitter – change your profile picture to purple.
  • Include the WEAAD logo and information on your email signature during June.

Download our WEAAD Community Toolkit 2016.

If you would like a hard copy sent to you please email: eapu@uccommunity.org.au

Tell us what you’re doing on FaceBook, Twitter or send us an email!