Hand MD, Lee MY, Dabelko-Schoeny H, Kaiser M, Mengo C. Societal, Organizational, Relational, and Individual Perceptions of Sexual Violence Against Older Adults and Its Prevention: A Systematic Scoping Review.
THE GERONTOLOGIST 2022;
62:e597-e613. [PMID:
34606600 DOI:
10.1093/geront/gnab144]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
Older adults are not regarded as sexual and are widely excluded from sexual violence (SV) research, policies, and practice; little is known about SV against older adults and its prevention.
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
An 8-database scoping review explored perceptions of SV against older adults, barriers to prevention, and solutions for prevention. Included were peer-reviewed and gray sources published since 2010, supported by primary research, on perceptions of SV in later life and prevention. A thematic analysis was conducted to explore key themes.
RESULTS
Of 148 potentially relevant sources returned, 95 were fully read after screening titles and abstracts; 19 were critically appraised and 18 were assessed for analysis. Seven overarching themes emerged, surrounding (a) knowledge and awareness, (b) research, (c) policy changes and development, (d) intersectional prejudice, (e) SV being taboo, (f) sociocultural differences, and (g) confusion regarding the definition and nature of SV.
DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS
These findings offer relevant considerations for practice, policy, and research, which will be further discussed.
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