Abstract
Introduction: Older adults may be particularly vulnerable to property crimes (e.g. theft, fraud) due to their decreased physical strength and mental alertness. This study aims to determine the prevalence and impacts of victimisation among older adults in urban China and their associated fears and social support needs. Methods: A representative sample of 453 older adults aged >60 years in Kunming, Yunnan province was interviewed to examine perceptions of social instability, experiences of crime victimisation, fear of crime, mental health, constrained behaviour, and support sources. Results: 56.1% of participants experienced one or more types of crimes. Property crimes were most prevalent (55.8%), with theft (43.7%), fraud (30.9%), and burglary (26.3%) being the most prevalent types. Experiences of victimisation was associated with greater fear of crime, poorer mental health, and more constrained behaviour. Living with others and greater perceived social stability were associated with decreased victimisation and fear of crime. Conclusion: Provision of family and social supports to older adults may mitigate victimisation risks and enhance safety and well being.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 32 |
| Number of pages | 1 |
| Journal | Asian Journal of Gerontology & Geriatrics |
| Volume | 12 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| Publication status | Published - Jun 2017 |
