Abstract
ObjectiveOur aim in this study is to assess the prevalence of abuse in elders with psychiatric illness and its association with various sociodemographic variables.MethodsThis cross-sectional comparative study included 300 elderly (aged more than 65 years) patients divided into two groups. Group 1 consisted of 150 patients with psychiatric illnesses presenting to the psychiatry outpatient department (OPD), whereas group 2 comprised 150 patients with somatic illnesses presenting to the OPDs of other departments. Elder Abuse Suspicion Index (EASI) was used as a screening tool for the detection of elder abuse. In patients with suspicion of abuse on EASI, the Actual Abuse Tool was used for confirmation and assessment.ResultsA significantly higher prevalence of abuse was seen in elders with psychiatric illness (21.3%) compared to those with somatic illness (4%). Among sociodemographic variables, a significant correlation was found between elder abuse and gender, literacy, and marital status.ConclusionsElder abuse is a serious social problem. Awareness should be raised to improve the attitude and behavior towards seniors. Healthcare professionals, especially in the psychiatry field, should be made more capable of and open towards early detection of and intervention against elder abuse. Further research on this topic in India is highly recommended.
Highlights
The elderly population is growing both in number and proportion worldwide as a result of increased life expectancy
Group 1 consisted of 150 patients with psychiatric illnesses presenting to the psychiatry outpatient department (OPD), whereas group 2 comprised 150 patients with somatic illnesses presenting to the OPDs of other departments
A significantly higher prevalence of abuse was seen in elders with psychiatric illness (21.3%) compared to those with somatic illness (4%)
Summary
The elderly population (people aged more than 65 years) is growing both in number and proportion worldwide as a result of increased life expectancy. This accelerated growth has led to a rise in concerns regarding lack of attention towards this group, its members being more prone to chronic illnesses, dependence, and abuse. Elder abuse can be psychological, physical, financial, or sexual, or one characterized by neglect; and it can be intentional or unintentional [3]. It leads to grave consequences such as physical and emotional suffering, hospital visits and institutionalization, and even mortality [4]
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