Global Review of Elder Mistreatment Research

Abstract

Abstract. Elder mistreatment (EM) is a global phenomenon, affecting an estimated 1 in 6 older adults. It is associated with many negative consequences, including worsening physical and mental health. The present work presents a narrative review of the prevalence and incidence of EM from 2014–2022. The studies included provided evidence of prevalence or incidence of elder abuse at national or subnational levels of at least one type of EM, though most studies often report rates of many types of EM. Overall, we retained 35 studies, comprising 41 different prevalence or incidence rates across five continents. The rates of EM varied widely both within and between countries. While less studied, we also present incidence rates, the rates of elder-on-elder mistreatment in institutional settings, and the rates of mistreatment by caregivers and discuss interventions and policy implications.