Protecting Our Elders: A Call to Action Against Abuse in Mauritius

• 04 October 2024

Mauritius is experiencing a demographic shift, with an increasing number of elderly individuals within our society. As of 2023, the population of seniors aged 60 and above has risen to 286,500, accounting for approximately 19% of the total population. While this reflects improvements in healthcare and longevity, it also raises significant concerns about the safety and well-being of our elders.

In 2023, the total number of reported cases of elderly abuse in Mauritius reached a staggering 1,245, underscoring the urgent need for action. The breakdown of abuse types reveals alarming trends:

• Physical Abuse: 174 cases (50 male, 124 female)
• Financial Abuse: 185 cases (54 male, 131 female)
• Psychological Abuse: 621 cases (180 male, 441 female)
• Neglect: 262 cases (76 male, 186 female)
• Sexual Abuse: 3 cases (3 female).

These figures, sourced from the Mauritius Police Force and Statistics Mauritius, paint a grim picture of the vulnerabilities faced by our older population.

SDG Commitment and NGO Efforts

The alarming statistics reflect the broader challenges associated with Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies. Various NGOs in Mauritius are stepping up to address these challenges, working tirelessly to raise awareness and provide support services for elder rights and protection.

Innovative Solutions for Safety

In response to the growing concerns of elder abuse, the authorities have developed the Sekirite app, designed to empower seniors by providing them with tools to report incidents of abuse and seek help. This initiative represents a significant step toward safeguarding the elderly and ensuring that they have access to necessary resources.

Moreover, through initiatives like the Gran Dimoune Konn to Drwa campaign, workshops are being conducted across various villages. These workshops aim to empower our elders by informing them of their rights and teaching precautionary measures. The collaboration between police officers and social workers further enhances these efforts, providing valuable insights and support to the elderly community.

A Collective Responsibility

As a society, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that our elders are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. The rising cases of elder abuse signal a call to action for all stakeholders, including families, communities, and government bodies, to prioritize the protection of our aging population.

In conclusion, as Mauritius continues to embrace its elderly population, we must confront the reality of elder abuse with urgency and compassion. By supporting initiatives that educate and empower our seniors, we can work towards a future where every elder feels safe and valued.

Let us join hands in protecting our elders and fostering a society where their rights are respected and upheld.