Older Women, Gender-Based Violence and Femicide in Ontario
Older women often describe feeling invisible within services, systems, and communities. After experiencing multiple forms of violence, often throughout generations and by multiple perpetrators, their needs for service and support are unique and complex.
Compared to younger survivors, older women:
- are less likely to report both sexual and intimate partner violence
- have unique risk factors related to lethality and escalation of violence
- experience additional barriers to accessing supports and services
Femicide rates against older women are on the rise and the pandemic has resulted in new and increased challenges for service providers and community members providing support, service and care. An overview of femicide of older women in Ontario and high-risk factors which may indicate a risk of lethality (death) was provided.
This interactive webinar included an overview of OAITH’s resources, training, tools, tips and knowledge focused on increasing capacity to provide trauma-informed service and support for older women who have experienced violence.
Strategies were provided for community members, professionals, and care/service providers to effectively recognize and respond to concerns an older woman is experiencing some form of abuse or violence.
Presenter: Amber Wardell, Communications & Resource Coordinator, Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses (OAITH)
