Loneliness and Elder Abuse: Does Social Network Size Matter?
Author Information
Author(s): Louis, He Jasmin, Leung Lok Man, Tsui Ronald, Wan Debby, Yan Elsie
Primary Institution: The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hypothesis
Does the size of social network affect the risk of elder abuse in older adults?
Conclusion
The study found that loneliness is a significant risk factor for elder abuse, particularly among younger, married women.
Supporting Evidence
- 37.4% of participants screened positive for risk of elder abuse.
- Younger age and greater sense of loneliness were associated with higher risk of abuse.
- Co-residence with family and social network size did not significantly impact abuse risk.
Takeaway
Feeling lonely can make older people more likely to be abused, and having a bigger group of friends doesn't always help.
Methodology
Participants completed surveys on loneliness, social networks, and risk of elder abuse.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported measures and the specific demographic of participants.
Limitations
The study used a convenient sample from community centers, which may not represent all older adults.
Participant Demographics
Community dwelling older persons in Hong Kong, with a focus on younger, married women.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p>.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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