What is elder sexual abuse?

Elder sexual abuse, like any incidence of sexual assault, is non-consensual sexual contact with an elderly person and is a crime of power and humiliation. Older persons can be frail and dependent on others, which makes them vulnerable to abuse.

What are the signs of abuse?

• Bruises around the breasts or genital area
• Venereal disease/Genital infections
• Unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding
• Sudden changes in behavior

Keep in mind that sexual abuse may be one element of the abuse. There could be other instances of neglect, misuse of medications, physical assault, broken eyeglasses or similar items, emotional mistreatment and misuse of elder’s finances.

Why are elder victims unwilling to talk about abuse?

As victims, the elderly often suffer in silence with overwhelming feelings of shame and embarrassment. They don’t want to believe what is happening to them. They hope that the abuse will stop on its own and are afraid that it will worsen if they do come forward.

Elder victims can have memory lapses or have difficulty expressing their abuse. All of which makes it difficult for the elderly to talk about what is occurring.

Who abuses the elderly?

There is limited research on the abuse of the elderly, but it is estimated that roughly 2/3 of all elder abusers are family members (National Elder Abuse Incidence Study, 1998). One study documented that 12.2% of older victims were sexually assaulted in their home; 2.4% were assaulted in an adult care residence; 14.6% were assaulted in the abuser’s home and 70.7% of older victims were assaulted in a nursing home (Teaster, Roberto, Duke, Myeonghwan, 2000, Journal of Elder Abuse) .

Do elder sexual assault victims have special needs?

Elder victims need many of the same services that any sexual assault victim would need, such as emotional support, medical care, protection from abuser if he/she is known to the victim and legal intervention if necessary and wanted. It is very important that able elders have the right to refuse treatment or legal action. Elders with mental disabilities may need loved ones or concerned caregivers to protect them and provide necessary services.

Where can I go for help?

Help is available by contacting PAAR at 412.431.5665. Counseling and medical and legal advocacy services are available to all victims of sexual violence. All services are free.

You can also call the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging at 412.350.6905 or 1.800.344.4319 to report abuse or neglect. The hotline is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Reporting can be anonymous.