National study reveals scale and drivers of elder abuse

One in six New Zealanders aged 55 and over experienced abuse in the past year, according to a national study measuring the prevalence of abuse of older people. The findings offer important insight into who experiences abuse, who is responsible, and the circumstances most commonly associated with it.

Commissioned by the Ministry of Social Development and led by the Auckland University of Technology, the National Study of Abuse of Older People provides the most comprehensive picture to date of abuse affecting older people in New Zealand. The study found psychological abuse was the most common form of abuse, followed by financial abuse, cultural and spiritual abuse, physical abuse, neglect, and sexual abuse. Those responsible were most often partners or former partners, followed by a child, friend or sibling.

Abuse rarely starts in later life

The study found older people who experienced abuse were more likely to report a history of family violence, financial hardship, social isolation and experiences of ageism. While abuse can occur in later life, the findings suggest it is often connected to broader family, relationship and social circumstances.

The research also highlights the varied ways abuse can occur. Alongside physical and financial abuse, participants described experiences of coercive control, social isolation and pressure within family relationships. Some spoke about threats involving access to grandchildren and mokopuna, illustrating how abuse can occur through emotional leverage rather than physical force.

Many older people do not seek formal help

Despite the prevalence of abuse, the study found many older people did not seek formal support.

While more than half sought help or advice, many preferred to handle the situation themselves, viewed it as a private matter, or did not believe anyone would help. Those who sought support were most likely to turn to family or friends, with relatively few seeking specialist elder abuse services.

Robust data to inform future work

As the first national prevalence study of its kind in New Zealand, the research fills a significant evidence gap. Alongside measuring the scale of abuse, it sheds light on the experiences and circumstances associated with it, creating a stronger evidence base for organisations, communities and policymakers working to prevent and respond to abuse of older people.