Knowledge and awareness of financial abuse among older adults in Kedah and Perlis: Islamic ethical considerations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33102/uij.723Keywords:
abuse; elderly; financial abuse; mental health; senior citizensAbstract
Elder financial abuse refers to the exploitation or improper use of older adults' assets or money. Unlike physical abuse, which usually leaves visible signs, the impact of financial abuse is often more subtle. Commonly identified adverse impacts include depression, frustration, anger, anxiety, insomnia, and panic attacks. Over time, these emotional struggles can have adverse effects on their physical and mental health. Although elder financial abuse has been widely examined in social and medical research, little attention has been given to this issue from an Islamic ethical perspective. This study investigates the level of knowledge and awareness of financial abuse among senior citizens in Kedah and Perlis. Using convenience sampling, data were collected from 122 respondents. The survey results show that senior citizens in these two states have a moderate level of knowledge and awareness about financial abuse. From an Islamic perspective, financial abuse raises serious ethical concerns, as Islam emphasizes justice (ʿadl), compassion (raḥmah), and the protection of vulnerable groups. Grounded in Islamic values that condemn exploitation, it is therefore crucial to implement stronger institutional and social protections for senior citizens.
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