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04:13
Using a Real-Time Locating System to Measure Walking Activity Associated with Wandering Behaviors Among Institutionalized Older Adults
Published on: February 8, 2019
Victimization of the elderly homeless
1Institute for Social and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816-1360, USA.
Summary
Older homeless women face higher risks of sexual assault, challenging traditional crime protection theories. Age does not protect homeless individuals from victimization, with health and substance abuse issues increasing risks.
Area of Science:
- Criminology
- Gerontology
- Sociology
Background:
- Felson's Routine Activities Theory posits that crime occurs when a motivated offender, a suitable target, and a lack of capable guardianship converge.
- Traditional theories suggest women and older adults experience lower victimization rates due to societal protection.
- Homeless populations, particularly older adults, represent a vulnerable group often overlooked in victimization studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the applicability of Felson's Routine Activities Theory to older homeless individuals.
- To identify specific risk factors for victimization among the elderly homeless population.
- To examine gender and age differences in victimization experiences within the homeless community.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from the National Survey of Homeless Assistance Providers and Clients (NSHAPC).
- Application of Felson's Routine Activities Theory framework.
- Statistical examination of predictors of victimization in a national probability sample of older homeless individuals.
Main Results:
- Older homeless women are disproportionately victims of sexual assault compared to older homeless men.
- Unlike the general population, age does not confer protection against victimization for homeless individuals.
- Male gender, mental health problems, physical health problems, and substance abuse significantly increase victimization risk among the homeless.
Conclusions:
- Felson's Routine Activities Theory provides a viable framework for understanding victimization in the older homeless population.
- The protective effects of gender and age observed in the general population do not extend to older homeless individuals.
- Targeted interventions addressing health and substance abuse issues are crucial for reducing victimization among the elderly homeless.
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