Detecting multidimensional elder abuse vulnerability in later life: validation of the VASS-12 screening tool in rural India.

Abstract

Elder abuse in India is understudied, particularly in rural areas. Psychological and rights-based forms of harm are less visible and rarely screened among elderly. This study validated the 12-item Vulnerability to Abuse Screening Scale (VASS-12) among 413 older adults (aged 60+) in rural South India. The scale demonstrated strong internal consistency (α = 0.81) and a robust three-factor structure capturing dependency and control, violation of rights, and psychological vulnerability. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) supported good model fit (SRMR = 0.053), and Item Response Theory (IRT) findings indicated moderate to very high discrimination for most items. Known-groups validity was confirmed by higher scores among older adults living alone and those aged 75 or above. Convergent validity was supported through associations with loneliness, depression, anxiety, and reduced quality of life. The VASS-12 offers a reliable, culturally appropriate, and context-sensitive tool for identifying abuse-related vulnerability in low-resource settings, with strong potential for use in elder health outreach and support services.