Older People & Domestic Abuse

Information and support for Older Victims of Domestic and Sexual abuse 

Domestic abuse and Sexual Violence  

Domestic abuse and sexual violence is about an abuser or abusers exerting their power and control over another. This is not something only experienced by young people – anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

For some older people, it will have been a significant feature for most of their adult lives, an on-going problem for 20, 30, and 40 years or even longer.  

For others, domestic abuse and sexual violence will start when they reach older age and/or become frail or cognitively impaired. 

Who is affected by the abuse? 

It is estimated that over 40,000 older people in Wales are being abused in their own homes every year. 

Domestic abuse and sexual violence can affect anyone regardless of their gender, ethnic origin, or sexual orientation. People with a disability are at even greater risk of being abused than those without a disability. 

Who is perpetrating the abuse? 

The abuser can be a spouse, ex-spouse, partner, ex-partner, son, son-in-law, daughter, daughter-in-law, grandchild or another extended family member. In some incidences there may even be multiple abusers. 

If you have contact with carers or medical staff on a regular basis, procedures are in place to help them deal with disclosures confidentially and practically.