Fighting Against Many Walls: The Help-Seeking Experience of Supporters of Older Abuse Victims

Background: Elder abuse (EA) often remains hidden, and many victims do not interact with formal systems. Concerned persons (CPs) are family, friends, and neighbours who play an essential role in supporting EA victims.

Objective: The aim of this study was to understand CPs’ role and help-seeking experiences.

Methods: Nineteen self-identified CPs shared their experience of being involved in an EA case via an interview and/or survey, with responses analysed qualitatively.

Findings: CPs were primarily the victims’ female relatives, often related to the perpetrator, and had sought help from a wide range of formal and informal sources, facing many barriers in protecting victims from harm. Challenges commonly related to formal services and EA perpetrators. Through knowing about the abuse and/or seeking help, participants experienced negative impacts, particularly psychological ones.

Discussion: Findings suggest that CPs can play a key role in supporting EA victims but require further support and recognition from services to fulfil this role.