Elder sexual abuse can happen to any older adult, but some people are at a higher risk than others. Knowing these risk factors can help families, friends, and caregivers protect the people they love.
Older adults who need help with daily tasks may be more at risk. This includes people who depend on others for bathing, dressing, or getting around. A person with memory loss or dementia may also have a harder time telling someone about abuse or being believed.
Living alone or feeling lonely can increase risk. When older adults have few visitors or little contact with others, abuse may go unnoticed. At the same time, abuse can also happen in places where many people live together, such as nursing homes or assisted living communities.
Another risk factor is depending on someone who has a history of violence, substance misuse, or controlling behavior. If one person has all the power in a relationship, it can be harder for an older adult to ask for help.
It is important to remember that risk factors do not cause abuse. The person who chooses to abuse is always responsible for their actions.
We can all help prevent elder sexual abuse by checking in on older adults, listening when they share concerns, and taking reports of abuse seriously. Every older adult deserves to feel safe, respected, and treated with dignity.
Not all older adults face the same level of risk for sexual abuse—but understanding risk factors can help us recognize when someone may need support.
Older adults who depend on others for daily care, live with dementia, or experience social isolation may be at greater risk. It’s important to remember that these factors do not cause abuse. Abuse happens because someone chooses to misuse power and trust.
We all have a role in protecting older adults. Checking in with loved ones, listening without judgment, and taking concerns seriously can help create safer communities.
Every older adult deserves to live with dignity, respect, and freedom from abuse.
Read our latest blog to learn more about the risk factors for elder sexual abuse and how we can work together to prevent it.
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