"The purpose of this publication is to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge about the abuse of older women. The main forms or categories of abuse against older women are discussed, particularly in relation to differing definitions of neglect, abuse and violence against women and older adults.
Prevalence rates from studies using different definitions and incorporating different forms of abuse can vary greatly, depending on whether the study focuses on intimate partner
violence, older adult abuse or, specifically, on the abuse of older adults in protective settings. Prevalence rates are also influenced by whether the data are based on one-year, five-year or lifetime cumulative time frames, and which old-age cohorts are included in the study samples. The publication discusses the challenges that this has presented to researchers.
Risk factors identified through prevalence and other studies include age and gender, as well as care-dependency in cases of neglect. The publication provides a summary of selected
study findings on the health consequences of abuse and violence against older women, as well as sources of data collection and some of the challenges that this presents to
researchers.
The publication provides an overview of preventive measures for addressing the issue, presenting the findings of evaluations on their effectiveness, where available. It gives an overview of main approaches to addressing the abuse of older women, and key
interventions – including policies and programmes for the protection of older women victims of abuse – along with outcomes, where evaluations have been completed." (from the Introduction)