How do U.S. Chinese older adults view elder mistreatment?: findings from a community-based participatory research study.
OBJECTIVE
This study examines the perception, knowledge, and help-seeking tendency toward elder mistreatment among Chinese older adults.


METHODS
A community-based participatory research approach was implemented to partner with the Chicago's Chinese community. A total of 39 Chinese older adults (age 60+) participated in focus group interviews. Data analysis is based on grounded theory framework.


RESULTS
Chinese older adults mostly characterized elder mistreatment in terms of caregiver neglect and identified psychological mistreatment as the most serious form of mistreatment. Other forms included financial exploitation, physical mistreatment, and abandonment. Chinese older adults have limited knowledge of help-seeking resources other than seeking assistance from local community service centers.


CONCLUSIONS
This study has important practical implications for health care professionals, social service agencies, and concerned family members. Our results underscore the need for research and educational initiatives as well as community awareness programs that highlight the pervasive public health issue of elder mistreatment.
Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA. xinqi_dong@rush.edu
Xinqi
X
Dong
E-Shien
ES
Chang
Esther
E
Wong
Bernarda
B
Wong
Melissa A
MA
Simon
D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D002681:China / Q000208:ethnology; D055812:Community-Based Participatory Research; D004552:Elder Abuse / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012938:Social Perception; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology