Partner violence on rise for seniors: Women in Crisis
GUELPH – Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis is sharing information to raise awareness about elder abuse.
Among femicides reported this year, three quarters of victims reported to date were aged 55 and older.
In a study examining femicide data and trends from 250 femicide cases occurring between 2018 to 2023, 32 per cent of victims were 55 and older – the most commonly reported age.
From 2018 to 2023, intimate partner violence increased by 36% for seniors aged 65 years and older. Family violence against seniors is at its highest recorded levels ever.
Symptoms of dementia can trigger or escalate violent behaviours towards loved ones, even among those with no history of violence.
Cognitive symptoms, increased social isolation and dependence on caregivers also make people with cognitive conditions more vulnerable to abuse from partners, loved ones and caregivers.
Women over 65 face additional barriers when looking for support around abuse, including ageism, financial insecurity, barriers related to health and/or disabilities, feeling a responsibility to care for an abusive partner and entrenched senses of guilt, embarrassment and powerlessness.
“If you have older women in your life, know that they might not ask for the support they need, or even tell people about violence they experience. So check in with them often,” Women in Crisis officials recommend.
