Association of Physical Problems and Depression with Elder Abuse in an Urban Community of North India

CONTEXT: Elder abuse is a serious problem that has adverse consequence on health. Still, research on elder abuse is sparse in India. AIMS: This study aimed to find the nature, prevalence, and factors such as depression and physical problems associated with elder abuse in an urban North Indian community. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 222 elders with 97 males, aged 60 years or older residing in an urban community of Delhi. Elders were assessed for abuse by modified Vulnerability to Abuse Screening Scale questionnaire, Geriatric Depression Scale, and self-reported questions on health problems. RESULTS: Mean age of the study population was 66.3 ± 4.2 years. The overall prevalence of any type of elder abuse was 24.3%. Psychological abuse was the most common type (22.9%) followed by financial abuse (5.8%), physical abuse (1.4%), and anti-constitutional abuse (nil). Among the abused, nearly 20% experienced more than one type of abuse. Thirty-seven women (30%) and 17 men (18%) reported elder abuse. Low income (<Rs. 10,000/month), female gender, and visual and hearing problems were risk factors for elder abuse while socially active and good health were protective against abuse. Depression and alcohol consumption were associated with elder abuse. CONCLUSION: Elder abuse is common in urban North India and is underreported. Appropriate interventions are required to ameliorate the problem.