Abstract

India's rapidly ageing population, coupled with changing family structures and socio-economic transitions, has brought increasing attention to the issue of elder abuse. Despite growing concern, elder abuse remains substantially underreported because of social stigma, family dynamics, and financial dependency. This exploratory mixed-methods study examines perceptions and experiences related to elder abuse among participants from the Jammu region of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 46 respondents. The questionnaire included both closed-ended and open-ended questions, enabling the study to capture both quantitative patterns and participants' qualitative perspectives. Secondary data from government reports, policy documents, and academic literature were used to contextualise and support the analysis.

The findings suggest that participants perceived financial dependency, changing family structures, emotional neglect, and inadequate institutional support as important factors associated with elder abuse. Financial independence was widely viewed as enhancing the autonomy and decision-making capacity of older adults. In contrast, economic dependence was perceived to increase vulnerability to neglect, emotional abuse, and financial exploitation. The study also highlights persistent barriers to reporting abuse, including fear of social stigma, emotional attachment to family members, and limited awareness of available legal and welfare mechanisms.

Rather than presenting elder abuse solely as a private family matter, the study interprets it as an issue closely linked to social justice, family dynamics, financial security, and institutional accountability. Although the findings are context-specific and not statistically generalisable beyond the study setting, they provide useful insights into the lived realities of older adults in the Jammu region and identify areas for future research and policy intervention. The paper concludes by recommending stronger social protection measures, improved implementation of existing legal safeguards, community-based awareness initiatives, and greater coordination among families, civil society organisations, healthcare providers, and criminal justice institutions to promote the dignity, rights, and well-being of older adults.