Abuse can happen at any age
Older people experience sexual violence too, but the signs are often missed.
Sexual violence against older people is rarely talked about, often overlooked which means signs are missed and victims stay silent.
Sexual violence is not limited by age. Older people may stay silent due to shame, dependence, fear of not being believed, or not knowing where to seek help.
If you’re unsure about something that happened to you, or if you are uncertain that what you’ve experienced is abuse, support is available from the Live Fear Free helpline. Feeling uncertain, uneasy or confused is a common response.
Recognising sexual violence in older adults
Sexual violence can occur in relationships, in care settings, or within families. It can be hidden by shame, stigma or assumptions about ageing.
You might notice:
- sudden changes in behaviour around a partner or carer
- fearfulness or tension when someone enters the room, or they are rarely on their own
- clothing that seems inappropriate for the weather or designed to cover injuries
- a person being spoken for, directed, or controlled by someone else
- comments hinting at fear, coercion or unwanted sexual contact
- discomfort, pain or unexplained physical symptoms
- avoidance of physical contact or examinations
If something feels wrong, trust your instincts.
If you are concerned about someone and suspect that may be experiencing abuse, please reach out to Live Fear Free Helpline. Trained professionals are ready to listen, offer guidance and help keep them safe.
How you can help
Notice
Look out for changes that don’t seem to fit with someone’s usual behaviour or health.
Listen
If someone hints at feeling unsafe, dismissed or controlled, listen without judgement.
Ask
Gentle, open questions, like “How are things at home?”, can create opportunities for disclosure.
Act
If you’re worried about sexual violence, abuse, or someone’s safety, call Live Fear Free for guidance on what to do next.