Preventing Domestic Homicides with Older Couples

Preventing Domestic Homicides with Older Couples: Lessons learned from Tragedies by Dr Peter Jaffe, Psychologist, Prof Emeritus and Margaret MacPherson, Research Associate, 24 Nov 21. I encourage you if interested to watch this video at eapon.ca. I attended this while it was being recorded. From 2003 to 2017 there were 311 cases of 445 deaths. 65% were homicides and 35% were homicide/suicides. 72% had a history of domestic violence. Of course I asked about men and they are exposed to less than 20% of domestic violence. Women ages 15 - 24 have the highest exposure to domestic violence. Older women have the lowest rate but it is still significant. Close to 3000 individuals over age 55 reported spousal violence in Canada, 2011. Reporting rates are conservative. Older women are less likely to report to police or disclose to others. There is a risk in males with a caregiving role. There is access to firearms. Mercy killing is likely in couples murder suicide. As women age they feel they have less life choices. Dr Jaffe suggested talking about homicide and suicide ideation with clients. As Christmas approaches That is all for now. I want to keep it lighter that Christmas is coming. However, Christmas is a very depressing time for people who are suffering. This entry has been focused on Canadian stats however the content applies to everyone. The most dangerous time for someone in a domestic situation is when they are leaving. In the city there are many resources and support programs. If you live in a rural area it may be more difficult because of the isolation. The pandemic has compounded isolation. There is help out there. Reach out. If you are a therapist reading this you are aware that you may suffer from vicarious trauma. What I do is decrease my work load to incorporate more fun and R + R. Self care is paramount. For victims suffering and feeling shame remember or look up my earlier blogs about abuse and the Honeymoon Effect. If you ever have any questions please do not hesitate to ask.