Vulnerability to Elder Abuse and Geriatric Depression in Rural Tamil Nadu: A Mixed-Methods Explanatory Sequential Study from Kanchipuram District, India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55489/njcm.170620266552Keywords:
Elder Abuse, Older Adults, Depression, Geriatric, Rural Population, Social IsolationAbstract
Background: Elder abuse is an emerging public health concern among ageing populations, particularly in rural settings where dependency, chronic illness, and social isolation are common. This study assessed vulnerability to elder abuse, geriatric depression, and associated factors among elderly in rural Tamil Nadu.
Methods: A mixed-methods explanatory sequential study was conducted among 250 adults aged ≥60 years in rural Kanchipuram district. Quantitative data were collected using the Vulnerability to Abuse Screening Scale, Geriatric Depression Scale-15, and Lubben Social Network Scale. Hierarchical logistic regression identified predictors of abuse vulnerability. Subsequently, in-depth interviews with 22 vulnerable elderly participants explored lived experiences of abuse.
Results: Higher vulnerability to abuse was identified among 13.2% participants, while geriatric depression was present in 22.8%. Illiteracy, female gender, unemployment, and widowhood were associated with greater vulnerability. Geriatric depression and comorbid diabetes with hypertension emerged as strong independent predictors. Social support showed a significant negative correlation with abuse vulnerability. Qualitative findings revealed a cyclical process of dependency, household power reversal, psychological entrapment, neglect, and silence within changing family systems.
Conclusion: Elder abuse vulnerability in rural elderly populations is closely linked with depression, chronic illness, and weakened social support. Integrated community-based screening, mental health interventions, and strengthening of social support systems are essential for prevention and early identification.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Anantha Eashwar VM, Moncia Albert Sekar, Sri Varsha S, Angeline Grace G, Sujitha Pandian, Hariharan S
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