Respect aging Section 3: INTERVENTION Module 15: Barriers and Risks in reporting violence Violence Prevention Initiative Respect Aging: Preventing Violence against Older Persons

Respect aging Agenda Welcome Learning together: Barriers and risks in reporting violence Small group activity Reporting back to whole group Wrap-up / Evaluation

Respect aging FACT: Most of the violence that is committed against older persons in Canada does not get reported.

Respect aging “Why won’t you tell?”

Respect aging Older persons, like most people who experience family violence, may be reluctant to speak up and ask for help. Barriers to reporting

Respect aging Barriers to reporting Fear… of more violence of loss of affection, connection of “what will happen to me”? of “what will happen to him/her?”

Respect aging Barriers to reporting Shame, humiliation Self-blame Maintaining family “honour” Being seen as weak

Respect aging Barriers to reporting Medication issues Past negative disclosure experience Limited understanding about human rights Exposure to family violence Poverty Communication challenges

Respect aging Cultural and language barriers Fear of deportation Dependency on perpetrator Isolation Language barriers Cultural perceptions of violence Mistrust of authority Cultural values on disclosure

Respect aging Isolation as a barrier Geographical isolation Few resources Privacy

Respect aging Barriers faced by witnesses and helpers Lack of knowledge, education and training Time Fear Perception of lack of power

Respect aging Reducing the Barriers: the “3 A’s” 1. ACTIVE listening and reassurnace 2. ASK 3. ACT

Respect aging 1. Active listening & reassurance Create a safe environment Listen carefully Provide as much time as needed Reassure – not to blame It’s not their fault!

Respect aging 2. ASK “What do you want to do?” Help with informed decisions Provide info on: Options Steps in making a report Support, resources

Respect aging 3. ACT Act on wishes Follow up Avoid judgments Provide support