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In response to the escalating needs of older women facing domestic, family, and sexual violence, a new South Australian research initiative has culminated in the creation of vital support tools.
This initiative, a collaboration between the State Government and the Council of the Ageing (COTA SA), is a reaction to a comprehensive 12-month study pinpointing the specific vulnerabilities and experiences of this demographic.
Announced by Katrine Hildyard, the Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, and Nat Cook, the Minister for Seniors and Ageing Well, the research involved extensive surveys and interviews with service providers and survivors.
The study included responses from over 400 women aged 50 and older and detailed interviews with seven survivors, revealing widespread issues and the urgent need for targeted interventions.
Key findings from the research highlighted that 64% of surveyed women believe abuse of older people is common, and 79% acknowledge widespread discrimination against women.
The study also noted that older women often face compounded vulnerability due to factors such as physical and cognitive impairments, financial disadvantages accrued over a lifetime, and cohabitation with abusers. Additionally, a persistent generational mindset that domestic issues should remain within the family further complicates the ability for older women to seek help.
To help combat these issues, the State Government and COTA SA have developed a suite of resources aimed at raising awareness and offering support.
Posters and bus shelter advertising have been developed to promote these messages and will be distributed to primary support services and community and health spaces across South Australia.
A webpage offering a list of support services has also been created: https://cotasa.org.au/programs-and-services/older-womens-services-and-supports
Minister Hildyard stated, “Every woman deserves to feel and be safe at home and in every other setting – no matter their age, background or any other circumstance.” She noted the burden of shame and longstanding conditioning that often prevents older women from seeking help. “This crucial research has identified gaps in service provision and helped to raise awareness that older women do not have to suffer in silence, that help is out there,” Hildyard added.
Alongside these resources, Nat Cook highlighted the peculiar vulnerabilities faced by older women, exacerbated by disabilities, racial backgrounds, LGBTI, and socioeconomic statuses.
“Elder abuse focuses on relationships where there is an expectation of trust, and this trust is breached,” Cook explained. She mentioned the familial complexities in cases of elder abuse where the perpetrator is often a relative, making it more challenging for victims to report the abuse.
COTA SA’s Chief Executive, Miranda Starke, pointed out the lack of visibility and acknowledgment of older women in discussions around domestic violence. “Older women often tell us they feel invisible, and this is also the case for those who have experienced family, domestic and sexual violence and may not even see themselves as victims of this type of abuse,” said Starke.