Some elderly people in the country have had suicidal thoughts due to their exposure to harsh treatment in the home and society at large.

There have been reports of people who sexually abused old women who are bedridden while other subject these weak women to financial and other social abuse.

Executive Director of the Foundation, Abigail Miezah indicated that some elderly persons wish death could whisk them away due to the traumatizing events they endure.

“The conditions of some elders are really bad. Some even told me during my research study that they wish they were dead. They are always having suicidal thoughts,” she said.

Nearly one in six people above 60 years suffers from abuse. 

In Ghana, the overall prevalence of any type of abuse against elders stands at 30 percent; with physical abuse being the most frequent. 

In a bid to alleviate abuse against the elderly, a Kumasi-based specialized care group is advocating for the promotion and social protection of the aged in society.

Elder abuse can either be physical, social, sexual, psychological and even financial. 

It also includes mistreatment and neglect.

In commemoration of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Guardian of the Gray Masters Foundation sensitized members of the Santasi Ahinbronu community against the menace. 

The event provided a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness on the social and economic processes causing elder abuse and neglect. 

According to the Executive Director, elder abuse affects community development. 

“When elderly people are not respected in the community, they end up not giving their best as they go through so much pain. They decide to lay back and just watch everything crumble.

“The elders have the experience so they pass it on to the next generation for community development,” she added.

Community members, including the aged, had the opportunity to undergo health screening