The double vulnerability: sociodemographic factors and elder abuse in extreme poverty

Ramírez Preciado M.C.; Iglesias S.R.; Gonzáles Ayala E.D.; Román Paredes N.O.; León Y.P.; Rivera González M.M. · Gerokomos (2025) · DOI: 10.4321/s1134-928x2025000300007

Resumen

Introduction: Elder abuse is a growing public health problem that affects one of the most vulnerable populations. The situation worsens in contexts of extreme poverty, where the lack of resources increases dependency and the risk of abuse. Objectives: To determine the sociodemographic factors associated with elder abuse among beneficiaries of the Pensión 65 program in Peru living in extreme poverty. Methodology: A quantitative, analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 278 older adults from the Pensión 65 program in the department of Áncash, Peru. The EASI (Elder Abuse Suspicion Index) and the FACES III (Family Cohesion and Adaptability Evaluation Scale) were used to assess response variables. Results: The analysis revealed that factors such as age, educational level, and family structure and functionality were significantly associated with the suspicion of abuse. Older adults between 65 and 70 years old, without formal education, and belonging to families with low cohesion, were at greater risk of abuse. Conclusions: The sociodemographic factors studied increase the vulnerability of older adults in extreme poverty. The results highlight the need for public policies that prioritize the care and protection of this group, with interventions tailored to their sociodemographic characteristics. © (2025), (Spanish Publishers Associate). All rights reserved.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Barranca