Determining depression, abuse, and neglect in elderly individuals

This study was conducted to investigate depression, abuse, and neglect in elderly individuals.

The sample of the research consisted of 315 elderly individuals. Data were collected using a personal information form, an elder abuse assessment form, and the Geriatric Depression Scale.

Emotional abuse, neglect, economic abuse, physical abuse, and sexual abuse were detected in 51.4%, 35.6%, 21.9%, 3.8%, and 0.03% of the elderly individuals, respectively. It was observed that elderly individuals in the advanced age group (75-95 years) experienced only emotional abuse, while women, single persons, those with low education levels, those without income of their own, and those who could not perform their self-care experienced both emotional abuse and neglect to a greater extent (P < 0.05). A total of 68.3% of the elderly individuals showed symptoms of depression at a significant level. The elderly individuals who were exposed to physical and emotional abuse and neglect had higher mean depression scores compared to those who were not (P < 0.05).

The study showed that the severity of depression and prevalence of emotional abuse, neglect, financial abuse, and physical abuse were high among older adults. Mental health professionals have a very critical role in recognizing, detecting, and managing elder abuse and they should investigate elder abuse by integrating it into routine screening, especially in high-risk populations. It is recommended that guidelines for the detection and treatment of abuse and neglect be prepared and implemented.