The document summarizes key findings from a WHO-INPEA action research project on elder abuse. The project involved focus groups in 8 countries with older adults and healthcare professionals. Two main findings emerged: 1) older adults primarily blamed structural factors like inadequate social services for mistreatment, termed "societal abuse"; 2) experiences of disrespect, such as in healthcare and transportation, were viewed as abuse itself and a cause of other abuse. The implications challenge the micro-level view of elder abuse and identify the need to address broader social and policy issues to prevent abuse.

1. The WHO-INPEA Global Strategy for the Prevention of Elder Abuse Silvia M. Straka Gerry Bennett Alexandre Kalache Silvia Perel Levin