Abstract
The aim of this study was to uncover some experiences and perceptions of elder abuse among New Zealand Pacific elders within their own communities. A qualitative design was used, in which data were collected and analysed, and meanings were ascribed, based on the cultural perspective and philosophical worldview of Pacific Island elders and the Fonofale model of holistic well-being. The Fonofale framework, congruent with a Pacific worldview, allowed for a guided understanding of abuse, as perceived by 50 older Pacific Island participants. In this study, the themes of abuse included psychological, financial, spiritual, neglect and cultural abuse in the form of disrespect. Importantly, spiritual and cultural abuse often overlaid the other forms, and intergenerational differences emerged as a prominent factor contributing to abuse. Shame, fear and loyalty negatively impacted help seeking behaviours. The Fonofale model of health and well-being was used to evaluate the findings, and inform evidence-based research that can guide healthcare professionals when addressing abuse within their own individual Pacific communities.
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Acknowledgments
We thank the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology for supporting this project.
Funding
This pilot research project was funded by the Investment Fund of the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences. We are grateful to the Pacific participants from Auckland who have shared their experiences, making this research possible.
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The Auckland University of Technology Ethics Committee provided approval for this project with the reference number 19/17617.
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Thaggard, S., Boon-Nanai, J., Tautolo, ES. et al. Experiences of Elder Abuse in Pacific Island Communities of Aotearoa New Zealand: a Cultural Lens. Population Ageing 16, 437–458 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12062-020-09318-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12062-020-09318-y