October 2023 Newsletter

Domestic Violence in Later Life

Every October we honor the victims and survivors of domestic violence through Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). It is also a time to remember that domestic violence doesn't just end at retirement. In fact, many survivors of elder abuse are experiencing abuse at the hands of their partner. The dynamics of power and control seen among younger victims of domestic violence are also experienced by older adults. If you and your agency haven't done so in the past, consider these ideas of how to honor DVAM in your community this month.

Take part in your local DVAM activities! Consider tabling or speaking at an event. Or simply providing informational materials about your program.

Reach out and partner with your local domestic violence agency. The aging services field and the victim services field are often very siloed. Use this month as a time to build or strengthen your relationships with local domestic violence agencies.

Offer training! Offer a training for local domestic violence advocates to learn more about the unique experience of older adult survivors of domestic violence. Educate advocates on how they can make their services more accessible and responsive to the needs of older survivors.

Educate yourself! Learn more about domestic violence, power and control dynamics, safety planning and trauma-informed care. In the video below, developed by the National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Life, Mary Lou tells her story of experiencing abuse by her husband throughout their decades long marriage.

Advocate for APS Funding!

Adult Protective Services received historic, dedicated federal program funding through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, the American Rescue Plan Act, and Federal Fiscal Year 2023 appropriations.

But this funding is in danger and advocacy is needed to impress on Congress the need to support APS. We need you to contact Congress to highlight the need for dedicated funding to APS and the impact of this support.

Visit the link to send a pre-scripted message or make a call. Share this urgent request with partners and allies. Be sure to add your story and data!

Send a message here: Advocate for APS Funding

Upcoming Events

Beyond Skin Deep: The Impacts of Domestic Violence

22nd Annual Domestic Violence Conference

October 6th, 2023, 8:45AM– 4:30PM

Wytheville Meeting Center

Organized by the Southwest Virginia Aid Society

The 2023 Annual Domestic Violence Conference covers a range of topics, prevention strategies and cases related to the correlation of animal cruelty to domestic violence, sex trafficking, stalking, and rapport-building with LGBTQ victims. We welcome professionals who assist domestic violence victims and further support the prevention of domestic violence. Join us to learn how to better assist domestic violence victims and to further your education while networking with others across the region.

TRIAD Senior Safety Day

October 18th, 9:00AM - 12:00PM

Nuckolls Hall - Tazewell County. Fairgrounds, Richlands, VA

For more information please call Melissa Hankins 276-385-1252 or e-mail -mspurgeon01@yahoo.com

Virginia Coalition for the

Prevention of Elder Abuse

PO Box 70054

Henrico, VA 23255