Victimization of the Elderly - Analysis of the Level of Social Functioning in the Community - An Exploratory Study

• NCJ Number: 105496
• Author(s): B J Holmes
• Date Published: 1985
• Length: 305 pages
• Sale Source: UMI Dissertation Services
• Publication Type: Thesis/Dissertation
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Ohio State University - doctoral dissertation

Annotation

This Ohio study examines the extent of the elderly's criminal victimization and abuse and its impact on their social functioning and integration within the community.

Abstract

Data were obtained from 182 elderly respondents contacted in 2 selected residential facilities and 4 senior centers. Relevant information was also supplied by interviews with 30 direct service providers and key professionals. The majority of elderly residents had not experienced criminal victimization. Robbery (17.7 percent), larceny theft (14.4 percent), and assault (20 percent) were the most frequently reported crimes. The majority (89 percent) had not experienced physical abuse, and the incidence of neglect and psychological abuse was low. Although victimization was reported to be low, the majority of the respondents had a low level of social functioning. There was little participation in community organizations and activities. Respondents' social networks consisted of contact with friends and neighbors. The statistical relation between level of social functioning and victimization was low to negligible. The explanation of these findings is not clear. One approach might be an examination of levels of fears as the basis for degree of social functioning. 81 tables, 130 references, and study forms and instruments.