Comparative Study on Elder Abuse and Neglect Among Geriatric Population in the Rural and Urban Field Practice Areas of a Medical College.

Background: Elder abuse is a multidimensional problem of public importance. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 16% of older people were victims of elder abuse. A study conducted by HelpAge India in 2018 showed that Mangaluru ranks the highest in elder abuse (47%). Given the scarce literature, this study sought to determine the prevalence of elder abuse and its associated sociodemographic factors.

Material and methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among the senior population in the rural and urban field practice a medical college in Mangaluru for one and a half years. The sample size was 280.

Results: Most of the study population was in the age group of fewer than 75 years (75.4%), with 50.4% females, 60% Hindus, 56.4% married, 39.3% illiterate, and 88.9% of them retired. The prevalence of elder abuse was 44.6% (rural = 50.7% and urban = 38.6%). Binary logistic regression showed that elder abuse was statistically significant among the unemployed, extended family members, and staying with children.

Conclusions: The study brings to light the sociodemographic factors that play a role in detecting elder abuse. It also shows the importance of awareness of elder mistreatment among older people. These elements must be considered for implementing and enforcing laws and legislation to help curb elder abuse.