Addressing Elder Abuse and Neglect in a Greying Malaysia: The PEACE Initiative

Abstract

Elder Abuse and Neglect (EAN) is one of the major public health concerns. The current worldwide rapid demographic transition, urbanization, and changes in social structures have predisposed older adults to greater risks of abuse and exploitation. In Malaysia, EAN is a relatively unexplored subject. Local studies have indicated that approximately one in ten older adults experiences abuse, and that the most common subtype is financial abuse, followed by psychological abuse. In the recent decades the Malaysian government has introduced two policies to address the growing elder population: the National Health Policy for Older Persons (2008) and National Policy for Older Persons (2011). In line with the vision of these two policies, the Prevent Elder Abuse and Neglect Initiative (PEACE) was commenced in early 2014 to address EAN through a coordinated, multistep approach involving stakeholders across sectors. This chapter elaborates on PEACE activities and the key leadership components adopted throughout its journey in making sure PEACE could act as a role model in health leadership.