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Sexual Abuse

The sexual abuse of older people is a subject that is rarely discussed, but is nevertheless a reality.  In some cases it is the result of opportunism (e.g. a careworker seeing a chance to assault a dependent person), in some cases it is planned (e.g. someone targeting a sheltered or residential home because they contain older people), in some cases it is the continuation of domestic violence into old age, and it some cases it is associated with an incestuous relationship. There are also reported cases of older woman from minority communities being targeted because of their ethnic origins.

One of the challenges of elder sexual abuse is that, because it is often denied, the opportunity to protect forensic evidence can be lost, by the kindness of others who desire to make the older person comfortable instead of calling the police.  It is important that we all establish the basic principle that sexual abuse is a crime, regardless of the age of a victim.

What are the signs of sexual abuse

Very often the behaviour of an older person, even if they have confusion, will tell you that something is wrong.  Even with dementia people can often make their feelings known to you if you take the time to listen, observe and take notice.  It is the capacity to believe that elder sexual abuse is possible, without seeing it everywhere, that will increase the potential to detect and respond to it when it happens.

Just 2% of the calls to our helpline relate to sexual abuse.  This is certainly an under-representation, taking all that we know about elder abuse in general and about sexual abuse in its widest sense.

Some of the physical signs to watch for are:

• Bruises around the breasts or genital area; 
  
  

• Unexplained venereal disease or genital infections;
  
  

• Unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding; 
  
  

• Difficulty in walking or standing;
  
  

• Marked changes in behaviour
  
  

• Torn, stained, or bloody underclothing;
  
  

• An older person telling you they have been sexually assaulted or raped.

If you suspect sexual abuse do NOT wash the older person or their clothing.  Do NOT let time drift by while you think about your course of action.  Call the police/gardai immediately as they are the experts and will have the skills, expertise and equipment to appropriately and sensitively respond.

More Information:

What is elder abuse?

Why does it happen?

What are the signs?

What to do and who to contact

Physical

Psychological

Financial 

Sexual

Neglect

Family abuse