Paradigm shift needed to end human rights abuses of older people with disabilities, says UN expert

NEW YORK (21 October 2019) – Millions of people around the world are being denied autonomy, face discrimination and are being left behind simply because they have a disability and are elderly, says UN expert Catalina Devandas.

“The human rights of older people with disabilities are not being respected. They are often considered as a burden and their lives are no longer thought of as having any value,” said Devandas, the UN Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities, presenting a report to the UN General Assembly.

“Institutionalisation and coercion of older people with disabilities has become normalised because of lack of adequate support. States must take action to counter social misperceptions of older people with disabilities by providing human rights-based responses.

“These misperceptions and stigma fuel a cycle of exclusion, violence and abuse in which older people remain trapped, with no legal avenue to challenge their situation.

“All forms of discrimination on the grounds of disability and age must be banned, including all forms of involuntary institutionalisation and treatment. Governments must also take action to support the autonomy of older people with disabilities and their inclusion in society.”

The expert said a paradigm shift was needed around the world in the way societies perceived and interacted with older people.

“States have an obligation to ensure that older people with disabilities have access to rights-based community support. They must also act to improve access to the physical environment and guarantee access to justice. These are essential conditions for the full and equal enjoyment of the fundamental rights and freedoms of older people with disabilities.

“While acquiring an impairment may be a common experience of ageing, intrinsic to the human condition and human diversity, discrimination and social exclusion should not be.” Devandas said.

ENDS