Analysis of Repeated Violence Against Older Adults in a Brazilian State

Abstract

Objective: To identify notified cases of repeated violence against older adults and its association with the characteristics of the victims, of the aggressor, and the aggression. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted based on data recorded in the Information System for Notifiable Health Problems on interpersonal repeated violence perpetrated against older adults between 2011 and 2018 in Espírito Santo, Brazil. The data were analyzed employing Poisson multiple regression with robust variance. Results: The frequency of repeated violence was 50.1 % (95 % CI: 47.7-52.6). Being 80 years old or more, presenting disabilities or disorders, and having suffered violence by partners and/or children were associated with this condition in both genders. In aged men, violence was more frequently perpetrated by two or more aggressors and during the day, whereas aged women were more frequently assaulted in urban areas. Conclusion: The high frequency of repeated violence and the associations with the characteristics studied reflect the need for care to older adults with disabilities or disorders and the possible signs of burden in family caregivers that may result in situations of violence. Actions aimed at early detection and adequate assistance to the victims and to the aggressors are important to avoid the chronicity of the condition.