Hidden scars—the alarming reality of elder abuse in Pakistan: a narrative review
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Abstract
Objective: This review critically examines elder abuse in Pakistan, exploring its risk factors, types, consequences, and interventions through an ecological framework, while identifying gaps to guide effective prevention and management strategies.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, and ScienceDirect, focusing on full-text articles published from 2014 to 2024 in English. Keywords related to elder abuse and prevention were used alongside Boolean operators. Screening of 12,282 articles yielded 24 relevant studies included in the final synthesis.
Results: Elder abuse in Pakistan affects one in six individuals aged 60 and above, with significant underreporting due to stigma and limited awareness. Key risk factors include advanced age, female gender, poverty, cognitive decline, and caregiver stress. Abuse occurs in various forms including financial, physical, psychological, sexual, and neglect, leading to severe mental and physical health impacts like depression, anxiety, and increased healthcare utilization. Interventions identified include family support, early detection by healthcare providers, community support systems, caregiver assistance, and legal mechanisms. Multidisciplinary and culturally sensitive approaches are vital, incorporating legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities.
Conclusion: Tackling elder abuse in Pakistan demands coordinated, multi-level strategies integrating healthcare, legal reform, ethical practice, and public education. Strengthening policy implementation and cross-sector collaboration is crucial to safeguarding older adults.
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