For Immediate Release: 9/4/07

Naples, FL – The Shelter for Abused Women & Children hosts a weekly Wise Women Support Group for victims of domestic violence aged 55 years and older in Naples.

“Up to two million elders are abused, neglected or mistreated by the very individuals who are supposed to care for and protect them – whether that’s a spouse, partner, child or caregiver,” explains Shelter Elder Abuse Response Advocate Vickijo Letchworth. “Designed as part of the Shelter’s Elder Abuse Response program, the Wise Women Support Group provides older victims of neglect, mistreatment and intimate partner abuse access to the support and empowerment needed to rebuild their lives.”

Intimate partner violence and abuse of older individuals can include physical, psychological, financial, sexual and verbal abuse, or a combination thereof. Moreover, societal norms, stereotypes and stigmas, as well as health issues, such as declining physical or mental capabilities, play a heavy role in how victims are both perceived and treated when they do disclose the abuse or neglect.

“It’s important for these victims to know that they are not alone, that there are people who care and who can help them navigate the various aspects of creating a safe, healthy and violence-free life, no matter what their age,” concludes Letchworth.

Victims of domestic violence can receive help by calling the Shelter for Abused Women & Children’s 24-Hour Crisis Hotline at 239-775-1101, or the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119. (Please call 911 if you are in immediate danger).

For more information about the Shelter for Abused Women & Children’s Wise Women Support Group, including day, time and location, please call 239-775-3862, ext. 242.

To learn more about the Shelter, Options Thrift Shop, as well as programs and services, please call 239-775-3862, or visit the Shelter’s website at www.naplesshelter.org.

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The Shelter for Abused Women & Children helps adult and child victims and survivors of domestic violence through safety, intervention and support; educates the public about domestic violence; and advocates for social change against domestic violence. For more information, please contact us at 239-775-3862, or visit us online at: www.naplesshelter.org

Media Contact: Mary Ann T. Green, mgreen@naplesshelter.org, 239-775-3862, ext. 211