I FEEL LIKE A SOMEBODY AGAIN: THE ETHICS OF CARE IN A SHELTER FOR OLDER ADULTS FLEEING ABUSE
2024

The Ethics of Care in Shelters for Older Adults Fleeing Abuse

Sample size: 15 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Richardson Lena, Canham Sarah, Weldrick Rachel, Hoselton Jill, Grittner Alison, Walsh Christine

Primary Institution: Simon Fraser University

Hypothesis

What supports older survivors of abuse use to cultivate a sense of belonging at the shelter?

Conclusion

The study found that trust-building and mutual care among clients and providers are crucial for fostering a sense of belonging in shelters for older adults fleeing abuse.

Supporting Evidence

  • Trust-building between providers and clients supports successful care-receiving by clients.
  • Mutual care and caregiving by clients fosters clients’ sense of belonging.
  • A perceived lack of care disrupts trust and impedes belonging.

Takeaway

Older adults in shelters need to feel cared for and build trust with staff and each other to feel like they belong.

Methodology

Qualitative interviews with ten clients and five providers from an elder abuse shelter.

Limitations

The study is based on a small sample size and qualitative data, which may limit generalizability.

Participant Demographics

Older adults who are victims of abuse and staff from an elder abuse shelter.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1107

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication