1. Respect aging Section 2: PREVENTION Module 8: Risk factors and protective factors Violence Prevention Initiative Respect Aging: Preventing Violence against Older Persons

2. Respect aging Agenda Welcome Brainstorming Learning together: Risk factors and protective factors Small group activity Reporting back to whole group Wrap-up / Evaluation

3. Respect aging What is a “risk factor”? A risk factor is a characteristic or condition that increases a person’s risk to harm.

4. Respect aging 4 types of risk factors 1. Personal and health-related 2. Environmental 3. Relationship 4. Societal

5. Respect aging Personal and health-related risk factors Age Gender Not knowing civil and human rights Ethnicity: language barriers, isolation Health condition Impaired decision-making due to health Addictions

6. Respect aging Environmental risk factors Hidden cash and valuables No money Social isolation: no transportation no phone or internet lack of contact with others no one to turn to for help Living in rural regions

7. Respect aging Relationship risk factors History of family violence; violence “grown old” Not wanting to report violence for fear of: making things worse being left without care Dependence on another person Having a dependent adult child

8. Respect aging Societal risk factors Ignorance or denial Societal values Tolerance of violence Ageism Dated views on gender, family roles, and responsibilities Imbalances in power and control

9. Respect aging What is a “protective factor”? A protective factor is a condition or characteristic that helps people deal more effectively with stressful events and lessens risk or vulnerability to violence.

10. Respect aging 4 types of protective factors Personal and health-related Environmental Relationship Societal

11. Respect aging Personal protective factors Good coping skills Knowing civil and human rights Safety plan in place

12. Respect aging Environmental protective factors In the community: Accessible transportation, community facilities and housing Services available in all regions In residential care facilities: Monitoring Policies and procedures Trained, capable staff

13. Respect aging Relationship protective factors Caring families A variety of relationships, including: Friends Neighbours Volunteers Clergy Caregivers Other service providers

14. Respect aging Societal protective factors Positive images of older people Culture of respect

15. Respect aging Remember: Violence of any kind is always wrong!