Population ageing around the world has drawn increased attention to the issue of human rights of older people. Extended old age is a women’s issue, considering women’s longevity advantage over men. Gender inequalities across the life course often make women more vulnerable to violence, abuse and poverty in old age than men. The human rights framework provides a solid foundation to approach the issue of violence and abuse against older women. This article critically reviews the United Nations instruments, with a focus on the international movement to promote human rights of older women, and provides implications for global social work practice.