Elderly
Sexual Abuse
Anyone is a potential victim of a sexual assault, but why
are older men and women more at risk than other populations?
- There is a false
sense of security; a belief that only younger people are sexually assaulted.
This can lead to a decreased awareness of possible danger.
- Older
people often live alone, which makes them more vulnerable to intruders
and less able to get help quickly.
- Elderly men and
women usually have more physical limitations than their younger counterparts.
Physical injuries from an attack may take longer to heal.
- Oten, older populations
suffer from depression and low self-esteem; they believe there is no
use for them in society. These feelings can lead to physical isolation
from others and thus increased risk.
- Many elderly people live alone and may be lonely. This increases the opportunity of a stranger being "let in" to someone's home without checking identification.
Understanding
The Problem
Sadly,
the elderly population is at risk for all types of abuse. This is usually
because of their physical vulnerability and isolation. Unfortunately,
they are also victims of sexual assault and rape. Prevention is the key
to reducing someone's risk of an attack, and knowledge is power. Seniors
deserve a life without fear - read on for tips on reducing the risk of
being assaulted and for information that will help those who have already
become victims.
Sexual assault is never the victim's fault!
Prevention Tips…
- For
older men and women who may be in a wheelchair, keep a cordless phone
on the chair at all times.
- Vary
routines and routes.
- Check
in and/or establish regular, routine communication with someone so that
if a visit or phone call is missed, someone will find out why.
- Don't
let strangers or acquaintences know if you live by yourself; use only
initials in the phone book and avoid "I" or "me"
language on your answering machine message.
- Set up an emergency signal with neighbors and friends that will alert them to danger.
Feeling safe is everyone's right.
What do I do if I fear an attack or have been assaulted?
- Because
a lot of elder sexual abuse occurs in the course of a burgulary, if
some one enters the house while you're in bed, pretend you are asleep
-- only you can assess the situation and decide if it is safe to call
the police or confront the intruder.
- Get
to a safe place.
- Call
911, friends, and/or neighbors for help.
- Get
medical attention; there may be internal injuries that are undetectable
to you or a police officer.
- Try
not to change clothes or bathe. If the decision is made to report the
assault, the police will need all possible evidence.
- Find support and help with the healing process. Sexual assault can affect all areas of a person's life. Contact New Directions Center, Inc.
