Perceptions of Trauma and Available Services for Seniors: A Sample Study of Individuals with Varying Degrees of Exposure to Physical and Sexual Abuse

Physical and sexual abuse are increasing yet under-reported forms of elder abuse. This study examined individuals’ connections to abuse victims, the differences in individuals’ experiences of abuse, perceptions about the accessibility of assistance services for older victims, individuals’ confidence in identifying and using those services, perceptions about the likelihood of victims reporting the abuse, and reasons victims avoid reporting. A 16-item questionnaire dealing with interpersonal violence was posted on 26 relevant social media sites. The total number of participants was 40, with ages ranging from 18 to 83. A majority believe that there are fewer support services available for older victims and that older victims are less likely to report than younger victims. The reasons most often given for why older victims might not report abuse were embarrassment, concern that nothing would be done, and not knowing where to go or who to contact. The results have implications for policy makers and health care workers.