The Institutionalisation of Brazilian Older Abused Adults: A Qualitative Study among Victims and Formal Carers

Abstract

Abuse against elders is acknowledged as a severe and pervasive problem in society. If support services are not tailored to the victims’ knowledge or perceived needs, the intervention is likely to be unsuccessful. This study aimed to explore the experience of institutionalisation of abused older people from the perspective of the victims and their formal carers in a Brazilian social shelter. A qualitative descriptive study was performed with 18 participants, including formal carers and older abused persons admitted to a long-term care institution in the south of Brazil. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to analyse the transcripts of semi-structured qualitative interviews. Three themes were identified: (1) personal, relational, and social bonds: broken or weakened; (2) denial of the violence suffered; and (3) from imposed protection to compassionate care. Our findings provide insights for effective prevention and intervention measures in elder abuse. From a socio-ecological standpoint, vulnerability and abuse might be averted at the community and societal levels (e.g., education and awareness of elder abuse) by creating a minimum standard for the care of older individuals (e.g., law or economic incentives). Further study is needed to facilitate recognition and raise awareness among individuals in need and those offering assistance and support.