Elder Abuse in Mexico

Abstract

This chapter will present an overview of elder abuse research in Mexico from two perspectives: the first, using data about the prevalence of abuse in various parts of the country and the second, using case analysis of interviews in which of older adults, their family members and/or caregivers (often the same person) describe their experiences and perceptions of elder abuse within the household environment. The first part of this chapter offers a general overview of the principal studies carried out in Mexico, showing the extent of elder abuse. The second part will present the results of a qualitative study addressing the perceptions and experiences of the older adults, their caregivers and/or their family members, about elder abuse within their households. We found that there is limited existing information about the dimensions of elder abuse in Mexico, even though Mexico’s changing demographics and rapidly aging population have caused the subject to be recognized as a priority in recent years. The overview laid out in this chapter highlights the urgency to produce more studies that shine light on the diverse factors associated with elder abuse and enable the creation of appropriate prevention strategies. It is critical to redirect public policies in such a way that they guarantee the full protection of the human rights of older adults, and combat situations of mistreatment, abuse and discrimination. In this task, intersectoral coordination is essential (health, education, economic, etc.), involving the participation of older adults themselves, their families and their caregivers, as well as the community, the government and the private sector. These interventions should be focused both on prevention and on treatment and rehabilitation, with special emphasis on the most vulnerable groups of older adults.