“Spot the Red Flags, Stop Financial Abuse”
Today, Malawi joins the global community in commemorating World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD)—a day to recognize, reflect, and respond to the urgent issue of abuse against older persons, particularly financial exploitation.
This year’s theme, “Spot the Red Flags, Stop Financial Abuse,” calls on all of us—individuals, families, institutions, and government—to remain vigilant and act decisively in protecting the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of older men and women.
Why this matters:
Financial abuse is one of the most silent yet devastating forms of elder abuse. It robs older people of their independence, livelihood, and peace of mind. In Malawi, this challenge is worsened by factors such as poverty, social dependency, and limited legal and institutional safeguards.
🚨 Common Red Flags Include:
- Forced or manipulated transfer of property, savings, or pensions
- Coercion to sign legal or financial documents
- Denial or withholding of access to old age grants or social benefits
What must be done:
- Recognize the signs of abuse
- Report cases of exploitation or neglect
- Uphold existing protections under Malawi’s legal and policy frameworks
- Demand the implementation of older persons’ grants and other social protection measures
📢 “If you see something, say something. Call in. Check in. Speak out.”
Let us work together to build a Malawi where older persons live free from fear, and age with dignity, security, and respect.
