International Day of Older Persons 2018 - We can all Champion Human Rights and be Human Rights Champions – Take the Pledge!

International Day of Older Persons is a day to celebrate all older people – to highlight the value of all older people and to promote dignity and respect. The 2018 international theme is “Celebrating Older Human Rights Champions“.

This year Age Concern New Zealand want all New Zealanders to sign up as Age Concern Dignity Champions and stand up for the human rights of older Kiwis.

“There is no excuse for elder abuse, says Stephanie Clare, Age Concern New Zealand Chief Executive. I am appalled that we are still having to deal with cases each day where older people are taken advantage of.

“Just because someone is older it doesn’t mean they are less valuable, have less purpose or should lose basic human rights, the right to make their own choices and respect from those around them.

“Of the cases we see, 75% of alleged abusers are family members, either adult children or partners of adult children and that needs to stop!

“So come on Kiwis we all have a part to play. You can take a stand against ageism and join me by signing up today!” says Stephanie.

An Age Concern Dignity Champion pledges to:
• Reject stereotypes and focus on the uniqueness of every individual
• Speak up when they hear people speaking negatively about growing old
• Have the courage to question practices they feel are disrespectful to older people
• Not patronise older people
• Be patient, polite and friendly
• Have zero tolerance for abuse or neglect
• Build relationships – they combat isolation and loneliness by getting to know the older people in their lives.

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