Citation

Hand MD, Lee MY, Dabelko-Schoeny H, Kaiser M, Mengo C. Gerontologist 2021; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Oxford University Press)

DOI

10.1093/geront/gnab144

PMID

34606600

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Older adults are not regarded as sexual and are widely excluded from sexual violence (SV) research, policies, and practice; little is known about SV against older adults and its prevention. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: An eight-database scoping review explored perceptions of SV against older adults, barriers to and solutions for prevention. Included were peer-reviewed and grey sources published since 2010, supported by primary research, on perceptions of SV in later life and prevention. A thematic analysis was conducted to explore key themes.

RESULTS: Of 148 potentially relevant sources returned, 95 were fully read after screening titles and abstracts; 19 were critically appraised and 18 were assessed for analysis. Seven overarching themes emerged, surrounding (a) knowledge and awareness, (b) research, (c) policy changes and development, (d) intersectional prejudice, (e) SV being taboo, (f) sociocultural differences, and (g) confusion regarding the definition and nature of SV.

DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: These findings offer relevant considerations for practice, policy and research, which will be further discussed.

Language: en

Keywords

Sexual violence; Abuse/neglect; Ageism; Elder sexual abuse; Scoping review