Elder abuse and neglect is a problem that occurs across all settings and all populations. Elder abuse has many forms, such as abandonment, emotional or psychological abuse, financial or material exploitation, neglect, physical abuse, and sexual abuse. We conducted this research to determine the prevalence of various types of abuse and neglect and their associated factors among elderly patients attending the urban and rural geriatric clinics at a medical college hospital in Bangalore, India. A total of 200 elderly patients participated in the study. The overall prevalence of elder abuse or neglect was 32 (16%), comprised of: verbal abuse in 25 (12.5%); neglect in 22 (11%); financial abuse in 17 (8.5%); and physical abuse in 3 (1.5%). Hence, many elderly patients had experienced multiple forms of abuse. There was statistically significant association between elder abuse and total financial dependence, lack of social support, and depression among the elderly patients.

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic rapidly spread across continents causing widespread mortality. Older adults, especially those with underlying diseases, are more susceptible for COVID-19 infection. Due to this concern, reverse quarantine was adopted as a protective strategy. This can lead to several psychological and physical detrimental effects. Aims:1). To assess the mental health status (depression and anxiety) among elderly people in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.2) To assess the impact of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and mental health issues on quality of life. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study among older adults (>60 yrs) residing in urban community in Central Kerala, India. Of the 200 patients, more than half had moderate to high levels of anxiety and a poor social support. Depression was seen in only 1/4th of patients and that was significant in older women. Mean knowledge about COVID was below 80%. Social support was inversely associated with anxiety and depression. Anxiety and depression significantly affected QOL scores. This study emphasizes on the need for better mental health programmes tailored for our geriatric population. Joint multidisciplinary action plans with focus on enhancing social support can improve the quality of life of this vulnerable group.

Introduction Delirium is an acute disorder of attention and awareness, a medical emergency associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Delirium remains under-recognised, and few studies are from India. Methods This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of delirium and its risk factors among hospitalised older patients admitted to medical and surgical wards in a teaching hospital in Central South India. We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study on 100 older patients admitted to medical and surgical wards in April-October, 2020. Patient data were obtained from a record review, extracting information on comorbidities, medications, and terms indicating delirium. Results Delirium was present in 39% of the study population and was significantly associated with older age (88%), abnormal electrolytes (59%), and polypharmacy (87%). Delirium was also significantly associated with mortality (28%) and prolonged hospital stay. (36%) Discussion The prevalence of delirium is high among older hospitalised patients and is significantly related to adverse hospital outcomes. The findings of this study could trigger changes in hospital policies in screening for delirium in older persons for its prompt recognition and prevention of adverse health outcomes.