ELDER SEXUAL ABUSE (ELSA)
The Gold Coast Centre Against Sexual Violence is a welcoming space for older women who have experienced sexual violence at any time in their lives.
Age does not protect someone from abuse. Sadly, as people get older they can also become more vulnerable.
Elder Sexual Abuse (ELSA) is any kind of unwanted sexual behaviour, language, or activity that makes an older person feel uncomfortable, frightened, or threatened. It is about power not sex.
A person may have been living with abuse for decades without being able to name it as abuse or they may have a past experience of trauma that continues to impact them as they age.
If you or someone you know is experiencing ELSA there are options available.
Want to learn more about how we can all help to prevent ELSA in our communities?
This video tells the story of 96 year old Margarita Solis.
She shares her story of sexual abuse, talking about the impact the abuse had on her and how those who listened transformed her life.
Margarita shared her story on film to educate service providers and community members about the power of listening, really listening, to older women.
Margarita also wanted her film to send the message to older women that sexual abuse is not their fault - and that there are services that can help.
Professional Development/Training:
Recognising and Responding to Elder Sexual Abuse