ANALYSIS OF SELECTED SOCIAL DRIVERS OF ELDER ABUSE IN KILIFI COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Worldwide, elder abuse is a growing concern, particularly in developing countries. Despite existing research on elder abuse, empirical evidence on the social drivers that shape its occurrence within specific localities, particularly in Kilifi County, Kenya, remains limited. This study analyzed selected social drivers influencing elder abuse in Kilifi County. Guided by the Socio-Ecological Model, the study examined these drivers at the individual, interpersonal, community, and societal levels. The study employed a qualitative case study design. A sample of seventy-four participants, including 42 elderly persons and 32 caregivers, was selected through purposive and snowball sampling, respectively. In addition, 12 purposively selected key informants provided expert insights to complement participants' lived experiences. Data were collected using interview schedules and focus group discussion guides and were analyzed thematically using MAXQDA software. Trustworthiness was ensured through triangulation and an audit trail, while reliability was tested through a pilot study in Msambweni, Kwale County, which led to minor refinements of the research questions before the main study. The study strictly observed ethical principles such as informed consent and confidentiality. The study found that elder abuse in Kilifi County is driven by interconnected social drivers that weaken the protection and inclusion of elderly persons. Key findings revealed that social isolation, including loneliness, family abandonment, and limited participation in community activities, leaves many elderly persons without emotional and physical support and timely assistance. Age-related discrimination further increases vulnerability through declining respect for elders and negative stereotypes that portray elderly persons as weak, dependent, and burdensome. Moreover, weak family and community support systems, along with caregiver stress from financial and emotional strain, reduce the quality of care and protection available to elderly persons. Therefore, these social conditions undermine the dignity, autonomy, and social cohesion of elderly persons within society, thereby increasing the risk of neglect, emotional abuse, exploitation, and other forms of elder abuse. The study recommends expanding affordable, elder-sensitive healthcare and psychosocial services. This study therefore provides context-specific evidence on the selected social drivers of elder abuse in Kilifi County and offers relevant insights for policy formulation and for strengthening protective environments for elderly persons in Kenya.