NCJ Number
147573
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect Volume: 5 Issue: 4 Dated: (1993) Pages: 77-93
Date Published
1993
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This study of older adults in London, Ontario, Canada, who accessed health and social service organizations over a 3-month period found that about 25 percent reported at least one form of violence during their lifespan.
Abstract
The study sample included 605 adults aged 55 years and older who had contact with the participating health and social service agencies between February 15 and May 15, 1991. Respondents ranged in age from 55 to 100 years, with a mean age of 73.8 years, and females (67 percent) outnumbered males (33 percent). Most respondents lived alone or with a spouse; of those living with relatives, 17 resided with daughters and 12 with sons. Interview findings revealed a relatively high prevalence of elder abuse and neglect, perhaps because respondents in abusive relationships sought support from health and social service professionals. About 28 percent of respondents reported at least one form of physical violence over their lifespan, 14 percent reported chronic verbal aggression, and about 10 percent reported material abuse. Several respondents stated they were intentionally or unintentionally neglected during the past year. The overall prevalence rate for physical, verbal, and material abuse was 31.9 percent, while the overall prevalence rate for intentional and unintentional neglect was 16.4 percent. 18 references, 5 tables, and 2 figures