Elder Mistreatment Predicts Later Physical and Mental Health

• In Event: 349 - Section on Aging and the Life Course Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 03. Diversity in Morbidity and Mortality

Abstract

This study uses the National Social Life Health and Aging Project (NSHAP) to determine the temporal relationship between elder mistreatment and physical and mental health. Conceptual models point both to vulnerability of older adults as increasing risk of mistreatment and to consequences of mistreatment for emotional and physical health. We find that those experiencing mistreatment have worse functional health, and more symptoms of depression, anxiety, and loneliness 5 years later. Also, we show that different types of elder mistreatment lead to different physical and psychological outcomes. Finally, we find that social support buffers the negative effects of mistreatment on well-being, but only if respondents receive the support at the time of mistreatment.

Authors

• Jaclyn S. Wong, University of Chicago

• Linda J. Waite, University of Chicago