Crimes against senior citizens in Fiji have reached alarming levels, with property theft being the most prevalent offense. In a recent parliamentary session, Minister for Women, Child and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, revealed that there were 1,945 reported cases of crimes against the elderly in 2024, with 62% involving property theft. Disturbingly, many of these crimes are committed by individuals known to the victims, including family members, leading to the loss of valuable resources that seniors have accumulated over their lifetimes.
Minister Kiran also raised concerns about the broader spectrum of elder abuse, noting an increase in domestic violence, psychological and sexual harassment, as well as financial exploitation through scams targeting the senior community. She emphasized that these cases are not just isolated tragedies but reflect a national crisis that demands comprehensive solutions. She called on the nation to honor and protect the elderly, encouraging a view of aging as a testament to the wisdom and resilience of older generations rather than a burden.
The discussion reflects ongoing concerns about elder abuse, with previous reports highlighting issues such as adult children misusing property entrusted to them by elderly parents, which can result in seniors being abandoned or placed in aged care facilities. In response, various efforts, such as establishing support networks and promoting community vigilance, have been initiated. The Ministry of Social Protection continues to advocate for legal reforms and community involvement as essential strategies to address this urgent issue.
Initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges include creating communal spaces for seniors to alleviate isolation, offering counseling services, and boosting social interaction to guard against all forms of abuse. Officials have urged families and communities to recognize the signs of elder abuse and neglect and to act promptly against such acts.
In a larger context, Fiji is striving to build a more supportive environment for its older citizens. By promoting respect, care, and inclusion, there is optimism for noticeable improvements in the quality of life for the elderly. This collective endeavor highlights the importance of societal responsibility, offering a hopeful outlook that through coordinated community and governmental efforts, the threats facing senior citizens can be mitigated.