Community Professionals’ Response to Intimate Partner Violence Against Rural Older Women

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine rural community professionals’ awareness, perceptions, and experience with intimate partner violence (IPV) in late life. Using standard focus group methodology, 87 community professionals were engaged in discussions about IPV in late life and their experience in providing support to victims. Responses were analyzed using an open coding process. Most professionals were not aware that IPV against older women was a problem in their communities, although were willing to offer support if asked. Support for older victims was provided within the purview of each profession. Referrals to other support services were made, although collaboration did not occur unless a health-related emergency arose in which professionals were mandated to work together. Findings provide the groundwork for further research on the education and training of community professionals on IPV in late life and the development of more integrated community-based service protocols to address this hidden, but widespread concern.

KEYWORDS:

• abuse/neglect
• community capacity
• domestic violence
• rural
• spouse abuse