The Better Together, Couples study explores the causes and consequences of elder mistreatment (EM) that are unique to spousal and intimate partner dyads, specifically exploring the ways that the relationship history of spousal and intimate partner dyads is related to EM. Crucially, it aims to distinguish novel EM perpetrated by a spouse or intimate partner from late-life intimate partner violence (IPV) in caregiving dyads where the care receiver has Alzheimer’s Disease or a related dementia (ADRD). Semi-structured interviews with spousal and intimate partner caregivers will focus on the historical context of abuse in spousal and intimate dyads, including the history and direction of abuse over the life course, relationship quality, and relationship history, the impact of ADRD, as well as focusing on caregiving roles and perceptions of providing care.
Contact:
Elizabeth Avent (eavent@usc.edu)