Protective factors

Some specific personal or environmental characteristics tend to reduce an older adult’s risk of being mistreated.

Protective factors related to the older adult’s personal characteristics:

  • High self-esteem
  • Ability to ask for help
  • Understanding of emotions and how to express them
  • Social participation
  • Ability to learn alone and in the community
  • Good lifestyle habits

Protective factors related to the older adult’s environment:

  • Quality social network made up of appropriate, available and well equipped people
  • Healthy physical and psychosocial environment in which the older adult feels safe
  • Living environment free from ageism and social exclusion
  • Good financial situation and various means to secure assets