Prevalence and risk factors for elder abuse: A community-based cross-sectional study from North West Turkey

Abstract

The aim of the authors of this community-based study was to determine the prevalence of abuse perpetrated against the elderly living in a neighborhood in northwestern Turkey and related factors. This cross-sectional study was carried out in Balıkesir between November 2018 and May 2019. The Sample size was calculated as 520 in the Epiinfo program (95% confidence level, 50% prevalence, 4% deviation and 1.5% design effect). The chi-square, student t tests and logistic regression mode were used analysis. Having income equal to or less than expenses increased the risk of being abused 5.4 times (p = 0.011), living in residential areas outside the district for a long time increased it 2.5 times (p = 0.018), having a secondary or lower education increased it 2.1 times (p = 0.022), having sleep problems increased it 1.9 times (p = 0.023). The results of the study show that one out of every five elderly was subjected to abuse. Economic problems are the most important factor increasing the risk of exposure to abuse. There is a need for comprehensive public health approaches and social policies in planning services for the elderly.