World Elder Abuse Awareness Week 2026

15 – 22 June 2026 marks Elder Abuse Awareness Week, beginning with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) – a time to bring attention to an issue that too often remains hidden behind closed doors across Aotearoa New Zealand.

At HealthCare NZ, we’re working with Age Concern New Zealand to help bring this problem into the open. The focus is simple: ensuring older people feel safe, supported, and able to speak up when something doesn’t feel right.

Recognising elder abuse

Elder abuse isn’t always easy to see. It can be physical, emotional, financial, neglect, or involve controlling behaviour. In many cases, it comes from someone known and trusted, which can make it harder to recognise and talk about.

The impact goes far beyond immediate harm. It can affect a person’s dignity, independence, confidence, and sense of security.

That’s why awareness matters across families, communities, and generations. The more we understand elder abuse, the faster we can step in and help.

Take the step

This year’s message is simple: Take the step. You’re not alone.

If something doesn’t feel right – if a situation leaves you uneasy, uncertain, or concerned – support is available.

No one should have to navigate these experiences alone. There are people and services ready to listen without judgement and help work through what’s happening, one step at a time.

Reaching out is not a burden. It’s an act of strength.

Supporting older people and whānau

These conversations aren’t always easy. Within families and communities, elder abuse can be difficult to see – and difficult to talk about.

This campaign encourages open, respectful conversations between older people and those they trust. Small moments of awareness and care can make a meaningful difference.

Whānau, friends, neighbours, and carers all have a role to play – noticing changes, checking in, and offering support when something doesn’t seem right.

Older people should feel safe and confident to talk openly with a trusted family member, friend, or support service if they feel unsafe, mistreated, neglected, controlled, or taken advantage of – in a way that upholds their dignity and mana.

If you’re worried about an older person, or you are an older person needing support, help is available.

Working together for dignity, respect and mana

HealthCare NZ is supporting Age Concern New Zealand throughout Elder Abuse Awareness Week, helping share resources and messages that encourage people to recognise the signs and know where to turn for help.

We also encourage support for the ongoing work of Age Concern New Zealand. Donations help extend vital services to older people who may not yet feel ready to reach out – ensuring they are still seen, heard, and supported in the meantime.

Find out more

To learn more about Elder Abuse Awareness Week or access support resources, visit: https://www.ageconcern.org.nz/Public/Public/Info/Services/Elder_Abuse_and_Neglect_Prevention.aspx?hkey=d8e3bda1-e879-42aa-860e-c9d16cfcfee9

Because every older person in Aotearoa New Zealand deserves to live with dignity, safety, respect and mana.