Elder abuse in Czechia: a population-based study

Purpose Elder abuse is a growing and significant issue that often remains hidden and under-addressed. The purpose of this study is to deepen and expand the knowledge of this issue. This study provides population-based estimates of elder abuse in Czechia and examines its risk structure using nationally representative survey data. Design/methodology/approach This study analyses data from the 2022 RESTABUS survey of 2,687 respondents aged 65+, combining prevalence estimates with multivariable logistic regression modeling. Findings The findings indicate that poor self-rated health, functional limitations, low household economic status and cumulative lifetime adversity are strongly associated with abuse risk. Living alone or only with a partner is associated with lower abuse probabilities than other forms of arrangements. The findings reveal, for the first time, the true magnitude of elder abuse in the Czech Republic. The results highlight elder abuse as a pervasive but under-recognized challenge for social and health policy in Czechia. Originality/value The value of this study is threefold. First, this study establishes credible prevalence estimates and risk factor profiles of elder abuse in Czechia. Second, this study broadened the scope of what counts as elder abuse – capturing subtle forms of psychological harm and rights violations. Third, this study makes the results comparable to studies from Western Europe, North America and beyond.