Elder abuse and its associated factors in community settings in South Korea

Elder abuse is an underdetected yet consequential public health issue in rapidly aging societies. This study estimated its population-level prevalence and examined associated factors among community-dwelling older adults in South Korea.

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the 2023 National Survey of Older Koreans (N = 10,078). Population-representative estimates were derived using complex-sample procedures incorporating stratification, clustering, and sampling weights. Elder abuse was defined as any self-reported physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in the past year. Complex-sample multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs).

The weighted prevalence of past-year elder abuse was 4.8%, with emotional abuse predominating. Dependence in basic activities of daily living was significantly associated with higher odds of abuse, while independence in instrumental activities of daily living was also associated with increased odds (aOR = 2.39), indicating heterogeneity in vulnerability pathways. Participation in volunteer group activities was significantly associated with lower odds (aOR = 0.43). Higher levels of informal social contact were significantly associated with increased odds of sexual abuse (aOR = 6.49).

Elder abuse reflects complex, multi-domain vulnerabilities shaped by functional status and social exposure. These findings underscore the need for targeted screening and strengthened community-based surveillance, and provide a foundation for advancing the role of community health nurses in identifying hidden at-risk populations and leading coordinated, community-based elder abuse prevention efforts.