FC55: Geriatric abuse in India: Unveiling a hidden crisis

Abstract

Objectives: Geriatric abuse, a grave violation of human right affecting older adults, remains a silent epidemic in India. This study provides an insight into the prevalence, manifestation, contributing factors and societal implications of geriatric abuse within the Indian context. Drawing from scholarly research and empirical evidence it aims to illuminate the multifaceted nature of this phenomenon and advocate for urgent attention from policy makers, healthcare professional, and society at large Despite its pervasive nature, geriatric abuse in India often goes unnoticed and unaddressed due to cultural norms, family secrecy and systemic neglect. The abuse may take various forms including physical, psychological, financial and neglect perpetrated by family members, care givers or institutional staff. Factors such as socio- economic disparities, gender inequalities and cultural attitudes towards aging intersect to exacerbate the vulnerability of older adults to abuse. Understanding the socio cultural dynamics shaping geriatric abuse its essential for effective intervention and prevention strategies, traditional values emphasizing familial duty and respect for elders coexist with modern challenges such as urbanization, migration, and changing family structures impacting elder care and support networks furthermore, inadequate legal protections, limited access to healthcare, and stigma surrounding aging compound the challenges faced by older adults experiencing abuse. Addressing geriatric abuse in India requires a comprehensive approach encompassing legislative reforms community mobilization and capacity building initiatives strengthening reforms legal frame works to protect elder rights tailored to the needs of older adults and promoting awareness campaigns to challenge ageism and stigma are critical steps to creating a society where older adults age with dignity and safety.

Methods: We used interview and survey Methods to derive a representative sample (based on race gender education) in order to measure elder abuse in west Rajasthan (India) based population. Participants undergone interviewed via in OPD, IPD by taken case history, about a variety of abuse/mistreatment types and mistreatment risk factors in addition to question regarding health, social support and demographic. Specific elder abuse categories included emotional, physical, sexual, financial and neglect.

Results: Results of this study will be discussed during my presentation at the conference.

Conclusions: In consistent, geriatric abuse in India represents a profound violation of human rights and a moral imperative for action by acknowledging the complexities of this issue and fostering collaboration among stake holders, India can strive towards a future where older adults are respected, empowered and free from abuse and neglect.