This study examines whether elderly Koreans recognize a scenario of intimate partner violence as such and whether they would seek help in the given situation of elder mistreatment (EM). Two cohorts of Korean elders (one immigrant and one Korea-based), each numbering 124 participants, were recruited using a quota sampling strategy. The study used a mixed method approach, employing a hypothetical scenario, and patriarchy theory informed the study. Findings revealed low perception of the vignette as EM and low help-seeking intention in both cohorts. Among the immigrant cohort, intention to seek help was greater among respondents who were female, demonstrated lower adherence to traditional values, and perceived the vignette as EM. Among the Korea-based cohort, the only significant factor was recognition of the scenario as EM. Development of culturally competent and geographically specific practice and intervention is urgently needed, particularly among elders who have greater adherence to traditional cultural values.

The study examined perceptions of elder mistreatment (EM) and help-seeking intentions in two older Korean cohortsresidents in Korea (n = 124) and Korean immigrants (n = 124) in the United States, recruited using a quota sampling strategy. A mixed method survey utilized four hypothetical scenarios of physical, financial, and psychological abuse and neglect. A majority of participants perceived physical, financial, and psychological abuse scenarios as EM but not the neglect scenario. Multivariate analysis showed strong association between perception of mistreatment and help-seeking intention in the Korea-based cohort for all types of EM. In the immigrant cohort, help-seeking intention was associated with only the physical abuse vignette. The results suggest a need for culturally sensitive, type-specific EM interventions and education and policies on elder neglect in both countries.