Ageing, Abuse and Gender: An Exploratory Study of Senior Citizens in Goa

Ageing experiences are different for Men and Women as they grow old. Ageing has been challenging for women as they face two different problems: Patriarchy and Vulnerability. Life expectancy is higher for women in Goa, accounting for 76.8 years, higher than the national average. Living a longer life is seen with a series of challenges, such as financial dependency, health issues, isolation, and low care and support from family members. According to the HelpAge India report 2023, Senior Citizen women experience very high mental and psychological abuse. Recent Government data has shown a steady rise in the crime rates against the Senior Citizens, mostly Women residing alone in their homes. The objective of the study is to explore different forms of abuse that Senior citizens experience and to know the causes of the abuse. The research is based on qualitative data collected through interviews. The findings reveal that financial dependency is one major cause of the abuse of women Senior Citizens in Goa. Some common forms of abuse against senior citizens in Goa are domestic abuse, emotional and psychological abuse and financial exploitation.

Keywords: Abuse, Gender, Senior Citizens, Goa.