A recent case of intimate partner violence in Cornwall is prompting renewed discussion about the risk of abuse among older adults.
On this week’s episode of our podcast Silence Broken: The IPV Talks, Erin Lee, Executive Director of Lanark County Interval House, said the ages involved in the Cornwall case (over 80) have shocked many, while challenging common assumptions about who is affected by IPV.
Lee explained the case involved an elderly former partner, and highlighted how violence in aging relationships is often missed.
Lee said IPV is frequently associated with younger adults, but seniors are also at risk. She points to findings from the Ontario Domestic Violence Death Review Committee, noting elder violence is now a recognized concern.
Lee urged families and caregivers to include violence screening in routine care conversations.
Listen to the complete podcast below.
Support is available through services such as the senior safety line run by the Assaulted Women’s Helpline. You can reach the helpline at 1-866-863-0511 or TTY 1-866-863-7868. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Resources are also available through Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario.