A cross sectional study to assess the elder abuse among geriatrics at selected rural community areas, devrayasamudra, Kolar

• Author Details:   
• Vani R ^*
• Ansel Jose
• Pallavi .
• Dhiya .
• Rainu .
• Jesiley .
• Emin Varghese
• Gopika .

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Background: Elder abuse remains a pervasive yet neglected concern, especially within the socio-cultural fabric of developing regions.

Objective: This study delves into the hidden burden of elder abuse in a rural community area of Kolar, India, with a focus on its correlation with key sociodemographic determinants.

Materials and Methods: Utilizing a community-based cross-sectional design, 150 elderly individuals were surveyed using a validated structured questionnaire. The prevalence of abuse was estimated, and associations with sociodemographic variables were explored using chi-square statistical analysis.

Results: A concerning prevalence of elder abuse was revealed, with statistically significant associations noted for age (p=0.0173), religion (p<0.00001), education (p<0.00001), marital status (p<0.00001), family type (p=0.0158), and living arrangements (p<0.00001). Interestingly, variables such as gender, family size, and socio-economic status did not demonstrate a significant influence.

Conclusion: This study illuminates the multifaceted nature of elder abuse and its strong linkage to specific social determinants. The evidence calls for culturally sensitive, demographically targeted strategies to combat elder abuse and promote dignity in aging within vulnerable communities.