Many elder abuse victims feel that they can’t let anyone know about their abuse. Reasons may include:
- Fear of more abuse
- Shame or humiliation
- Blame
- Loss of affection or love for abuser
- Concerned about repercussions
- Family loyalty
- Fear of being moved out of home
- May not realise that abuse is occurring
- Threats from perpetrator
- Not being aware of options and resources
- Only alternative accommodation may be residential care
- Loss of entire social network
- Impairment
- Guilt
- Not able to leave the home to disclose the abuse
- Potential loss of relationships with adult children or grandchildren.
Women who are victims/survivors of abuse, may have additional issues such as:
- A strong sense of identity being a ‘carer’ and minimising their own needs
- Not wanting to leave because ‘marriage is for life’
- Staying for the sake of the children
- A lack of financial resources due to family caring roles
- Religious beliefs regarding family relationships
- Fear of losing home and property
- The perpetrator and family members being the victim’s only social contacts.