Journal of Research Administration

Negligence of family members and their dependence on the helpers makes the elderly more vulnerable to face abuse in their own homes. The condition is worse among women who are not only physically weak but also financially having lost their husbands in most cases and dependent on their children and or family members. The present study aims to assess the magnitude, types and also the reasons for abuse among elderly women residing inown homes with their family in the city. The study involved 542 elderly persons (males and females) as sample residing in different parts of Kolkata. Data gathering tool included questionnaires on social, economic, health conditions of the elderly along with general information schedule.  Findings show that sex wise abuse is mostly faced by women compared to men. Elderly face abuse mostly from their sons and daughter in laws. The main important reason for abuse faced has been due to poor financial conditions and economic dependency on family members. Use of harsh languages by the governesses and family members in many situations has deteriorated the mental conditions of the elderly. They feel neglected, burden for others and lack motive for living. Thus, it can be said that the conditions of women elderly in the city of Kolkata are quite helpless, insecure, lonely and vulnerable.