Does abuse in late life worsen sleep quality? A two-year prospective cohort study among rural older adults

Impacts of mistreatment on the psychological and physical health of older adults living in sheltered homes

OBJECTIVES

To assess the impact of the mistreatment on psychological and physical health among older adults living in sheltered homes.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 446 older adults living in 43 sheltered homes. The psychological effects questions screened for suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. The physical health effects questions assessed perceived physical health status and healthcare resource utilization.

RESULTS

All subtypes of mistreatment of older adults were associated with increased prevalence rates of anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and sleep problems. Perceived poor physical health is common among older mistreated adults; it was self-reported by 74% who experienced physical mistreatment and 49% who experienced other types of mistreatment. Increased healthcare utilization was higher among older adults who experienced mistreatment.

DISCUSSION

Mistreatment of older adults living in sheltered homes is associated with negative impacts on physical and psychological health, as well as increased healthcare utilization compared to those who are not mistreated.