Elderly victims of domestic abuse are often isolated

It is a growing social problem which must be tackled. Only by raising awareness of this issue and ensuring it is no longer considered a problem to be kept behind closed doors can there be significant and sustained change.

However, in all of the coverage given to such an important issue there appears to be a lack of direct focus on a particular group of people – the elderly.

We are an ageing population in the UK and domestic abuse can occur in any family relationship, at any time of life. Often, if there is domestic abuse in the relationship of an older couple, it has been present to some degree for a long time. The financial and social pressures of retirement in the current economic climate can increase the degree or frequency of such abuse.

Sometimes there is no history of abuse in a relationship or marriage, but life’s struggles, whether caused by financial hardship or bereavement, can manifest themselves in something which could not be foreseen.

The issues which prevent those suffering abuse at a later stage in life from accessing support and advice vary, but they include: an increased stigma or sense of shame, a different understanding of what abuse is, the belief that nothing can be done and/or there is no appropriate service or help available, the fear of not being believed or of the consequences of intervention, and, perhaps saddest of all, the potential responses of family members, including adult children.

Many older members of society are not overly familiar or comfortable with the internet and come from a generation where telephoning a helpline for assistance from a stranger is not something considered to be appropriate.

The elderly can all too often become isolated, which is a trend for all those experiencing domestic abuse.

Medical and health professionals are an example of those people that abuse victims can see alone. Offering training on domestic abuse to such professionals so they are better equipped to be sensitive to the issue and offer initial guidance could be a practical and effective way forward.

Sadly, sometimes those who hear that first disclosure simply don’t know what to do or what details should be given to the victim. Chances to support that person can all too often be missed and the cycle of abuse continues unchecked.

Against the welcomed widening of the definition of domestic abuse in April 2013, the law can be applied to good effect in these cases.

Part 4 of the Family Act 1996 allows any person suffering domestic abuse to apply for immediate protection from their abuser, often on an emergency basis without the perpetrator being informed until after a court order has been made. While the court process can be stressful, with the right support, those who feel able to take action to protect themselves can move on beyond abuse, no matter their age. SJ