IACHR calls for the eradication of mistreatment of the elderly and guaranteeing lives free of violence

June 15, 2025

Washington, DC—On the occasion of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) calls on States to redouble their efforts to prevent, punish and eradicate violence against older persons, both in the family and in care institutions.

Abuse and mistreatment of older persons constitutes a form of violence and is a manifestation of the structural age discrimination that permeates our societies against older persons ("ageism").

In its thematic report on the rights of older persons and national protection systems, the IACHR highlighted situations of physical, psychological, sexual and property abuse and neglect in long-stay centers in several countries in the region. In its Annual Report 2024, the IACHR again reported on these forms of violence, which included particular acts of physical and psychological abuse, the occurrence of a fire in a home for the care of the elderly, as well as forms of property violence, through the loss of purchasing power due to the lack of pension updates or the informal employment of this population.

The Commission stresses that the eradication of all forms of abuse - physical, psychological or economic - in old age requires profound cultural changes that recognize the social value of the elderly, combat ageism and promote intergenerational relationships based on respect and solidarity.

The Commission recalls that States have an obligation to prevent human rights violations in the family environment, as well as in care institutions. In particular, care homes should be subject to specific regulations, regular inspections, accessible channels of complaint and effective systems of accountability, as well as ensuring that the autonomy, independence and will of older persons are respected, in accordance with international instruments such as the Convention on the Protection of the Rights of Older Persons.

In this regard, the IACHR urges States that have not yet done so to accede to the Inter-American Convention on the Protection of the Human Rights of Older Persons and to develop comprehensive responses to prevent, punish and eradicate all forms of violence in old age.

The IACHR is a principal, autonomous body of the Organization of American States (OAS), whose mandate derives from the OAS Charter and the American Convention on Human Rights. The Inter-American Commission is mandated to promote the observance and defense of human rights in the region and acts as a consultative body to the OAS in this area. The IACHR is composed of seven independent members who are elected by the OAS General Assembly in their personal capacity and do not represent their countries of origin or residence.

No. 122/25

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