Abstract
This tri-provincial mixed methods study explores the reasons for under reporting abuse of older adults in the Prairie Provinces of Canada. Abuse of community-residing older adults, and specifically the reasons for not reporting such abuse, is poorly understood. This paper discusses the findings of the qualitative arm of the study that collected data through interviews with older adults having histories of abuse, their family members and service providers from related sectors. Content analysis was employed to identify three key themes: (1) recognizing and naming abuse; (2) barriers to disclosure; and (3) facilitators of reporting. Recommendations are made to improve awareness, education, and service provision in prevention and treatment of the abuse of community-residing older adults.
Highlights
Abuse of community-residing older adults and the reasons for not reporting are poorly understood
This paper discusses the findings of an exploratory qualitative study that collected data in the Prairie Provinces in Canada, through interviews with older adults who identified as having histories of abuse, family members of abuse victims, and service providers working in related sectors
Under reporting of abuse of older adults is linked to how families, communities, and societies understand abuse against older adults, and the role that ageism plays in our society (Préville et al, 2014; Roger & Ursel, 2009; Walsh, D’Aoust, et al, 2011)
Summary
Abuse of community-residing older adults and the reasons for not reporting are poorly understood. The use of the word “reporting” in this study refers to that action, but given the data that emerged in this study, encompasses a continuum of actions including seeking help from a neighbor, friend, or family member, seeking support from a community organization, and reporting abuse more formally to the police. Under reporting of abuse of older adults is linked to how families, communities, and societies understand abuse against older adults, and the role that ageism plays in our society (Préville et al, 2014; Roger & Ursel, 2009; Walsh, D’Aoust, et al, 2011). Findings on the barriers and facilitators of reporting and disclosure can be used to develop recommendations to improve existing strategies or develop new approaches for intervention, and when appropriate, reporting abuse in the Canadian Prairie Provinces of community-residing older adults. It can be the result of intentional or unintentional neglect.” Applying definitions in practice can be challenging, given the contextual nuances that influence the relationships older adults inhabit within their families and communities
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