Support for Our Elders
You may remember hearing about Josephine, an older adult who received services at A Safe Place Family Justice Center last year. Josephine called A Safe Place with concerns about her live-in caregiver. Thanks to A Safe Place’s collaborative approach, Josephine connected with a case worker from the Oregon Department of Human Services Adult Protective Services Division (DHS/APS) and CWS’ Abuse in Later Life Advocate in one safe location. Her abuser is now in jail and Josephine is re-establishing her life free of abuse.
Approximately 1 in 10 older adults experience elder abuse each year, though only 4% of cases are reported, according to the National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Later Life.
Elder abuse, a form of domestic violence, is a pattern of behavior that someone uses to gain power and control over an older adult. Often, the abuser is in a trusted position to the victim, and may be a family member or caregiver. Like other types of domestic violence, elder abuse can take many different forms, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, social isolation, psychological abuse, financial exploitation and sexual violence. Shame and guilt are barriers to survivors escaping violence. All too often, elder abuse goes unnoticed.
That’s why World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, recognized each year on June 15th, strives to raise awareness about abuse and neglect in later life. At Clackamas Women’s Services, we believe that all people deserve to thrive free of violence and with the compassionate care they require.
Clackamas Women’s Services offers specialized services for individuals like Josephine. CWS has a dedicated Abuse in Later Life Advocate who can provide everything from short-term crisis support to long-term case management to individuals over the age of 50. Clackamas Women’s Services is seeing older adults in greater numbers thanks in part to the increased visibility and collaboration at A Safe Place. 10% of the survivors that CWS served in 2014 were over the age of 50. Those who are seeking services for themselves or a loved one can call the 24-hour crisis and support line at 888-654-2288.