Impact of crime on the rural elderly.

Two hundred and seven persons over 65 years of age were interviewed to determine the impact of crime on their lives. The setting was during a much publicized series of assaults on the rural elderly in their homes. Seventy two per cent were upset, 40% of the total were moderately upset and 26% suffered a major upset. Females and those over 75 years old were most upset. Some aspect of change of lifestyle was found in the vast majority.