Elder mistreatment and cognitive functioning among Chinese older adults in the U.S.

Elder mistreatment disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minority older adults, particularly Chinese older adults in the U.S. who face increased risks due to cultural disparities, intergenerational conflicts, and socioeconomic disparities. This study investigated the longitudinal association of elder mistreatment with cognitive functioning among Chinese older adults in the Greater Chicago area (N = 2,811). Self-reported elder mistreatment and cognitive performance were assessed across four waves of the study. Latent growth curve modeling analysis showed that respondents reporting previous mistreatment instances at baseline exhibited better initial functioning status (B = 0.07, p < .05); however, those reporting mistreatment incidents at three follow-ups showed a faster cognitive decline compared to those without such reports (B = -0.04, p < .05). Recent and potentially cumulative experiences of elder mistreatment have a negative effect on cognitive decline. Sociocultural contexts need to be considered when addressing elder mistreatment issues within the Chinese minority community.