Spousal abuse occurs when verbal abuse or threatening behavior leads to mental or physical violence, explains Help Guide. Spousal abuse does not discriminate against age or social status. Many elderly and older adults in the United States face violent and controlling conditions in their marriage.
Signs
According to the website Help Guide, signs of emotional abuse include yelling, humiliation, criticizing, blaming, aggressive or taunting behavior, name-calling, threats of harm or threats of hurting or killing you. Physical signs include hitting, throwing objects, locking you in a room or any type of physical harm.
Cause
Spousal abuse might have been occurring for many years, and in isolated cases, a spouse who suffers from dementia or Alzheimer's disease might suddenly become violent or express threatening behavior, according to Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Signs include impaired judgment, changes in personality, angry behaviors and personality-altering episodes. All those actions can lead to violent outbursts, and in some cases, end with inability to remember the violent behavior.
Risks
According to the At Health website, elder abuse occurs in every 32 of 1,000 people older than age 65. Elderly people are more likely to sustain greater injury than a younger person because of limited strength and an increased risk of broken bones. Some elderly persons are not able to speak for themselves because of mental or neurological illnesses. Others cannot defend themselves, especially if they are handicapped or bed-ridden. Not having a voice for themselves can make it easier for the abusive spouse to continue a hurtful pattern of physical and emotional violence.
Consequences
A spouse who abuses his wife can face consequences in a court of law. Serious cases can involve probation or jail time. As an elderly person, you might have to leave your home if you are charged with domestic violence or assault.
Seeking Help
If you find yourself in an abusive marriage, ask for help. If you feel your life is in clear and present danger, call the police. If you are worried your spouse might hurt you or has threatened you, contact a family member who can assist you to a safe location. If you are alone and have no family or friends, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. The hot line is confidential and will help you get in touch with a social worker or local resource group.
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