Year: 2007
Type: article
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To identify prevalence studies of abuse among elderly and assess their quality. METHODS: A systematic literature review was performed through PubMed, LILACS, Embase, ISI, and PsycInfo, for the period between 1988 and 2005. Population-based studies were included and studies without clear methodological definition and with clinical and service samples were excluded. RESULTS: There were found 440 articles, but only 11 of them were selected. Most were cross-sectional designs and only two were longitudinal studies. These studies were conducted in various countries worldwide, mostly in US and Europe. They varied widely in terms of abuse definition. Prevalence of physical abuse ranged from 1.2% (Holland) to 18% (Finland). CONCLUSIONS: There is a considerable prevalence variation between sites. The most influential variables on prevalence seem to be culture-related. As the number of elderly is increasing worldwide, there is a need for studies to better understand this phenomenon.
Source: Revista de Saúde Pública
Institution: Universidade Federal de São Paulo
Language: Portuguese
Topic: Elder Abuse and Neglect
Subfield: Demography
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,200
OpenAlex ID: W2124911032