Family Violence and Abuse in Later Life.
Source: National Center on Law and Elder Rights
Published: 2023
Summary:
Family violence and abuse in later life is a pervasive and challenging issue affecting millions of older adults throughout the country each year. Because such abuse often goes unreported, it is important for legal service providers, and other professionals working with older survivors of abuse, to understand and recognize the types of abuse and common tactics used by those who cause harm to assert power and control over older adults.
This session will explore ways that legal assistance, elder rights, and aging services professionals can work with older survivors of abuse in later life, which includes using a person-centered approach, implementing trauma-informed practices, and strategies for preventing further harm from occurring. Presenters will also provide information and resources for working with older survivors of abuse, which includes the benefits of collaborating with local service providers and community organizations.
Key Lessons
1. Family violence and abuse in later life is a prevalent and pervasive issue affecting millions of older adults throughout our communities.
2. There are several types of abuse experienced by older adults, including physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, psychological violence, financial exploitation, and trafficking. Forms of abuse often co-occur.
3. Those who commit harm may use many types of tactics to assert power and control over older adults.
4. Legal services professionals should adopt a person-centered approach when working with older survivors of family violence, which includes addressing acute or complex trauma and identifying and discussing the best strategies to prevent further harm from occurring.
Presenters:
• Candace Heisler, Retired Assistant District Attorney, San Francisco, Heisler & Associates
• Ann E. Laatsch, Justice System Coordinator, National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Later Life (NCALL)
• Erica Costello, Senior Attorney, ABA Commission on Law and Aging
Link: Family Violence and Abuse in Later Life.
Topics: Domestic Violence in Later Life, Legal, Overview/General
Access: Web-based
Intended Use: Self-directed Learning
Audience: Legal/Law Enforcement
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