For older women

Home: Survivors: Information on Rape: Surviving rape

Most people believe that only a certain type of woman stereotypically young, single, attractive and heterosexual is raped. This is not so. If you are a parent, teenager, lesbian, married woman, older woman or a woman who has a disability; or if you are an illegal immigrant, this section is for you. We hope you find it helpful.

You may have thought this could never happen to you, but any woman old or young, rich or poor, living alone or with others is vulnerable to rape. Most rapes are planned. Anger and power, not sexual gratification, are the motivations for sexual assault. It's natural to feel guilty, but sexual assault is never the responsibility of the woman. You did nothing to provoke or cause this attack. As an older woman, you may have special needs. Many women want to move following an assault. If you are living on a fixed income, this may be a problem for you. It may take you longer to recover from physical injuries and/or the rape experience. In addition, you may experience more anxiety concerning:

• self-image. I have always tried to be a good person. I've lived through many things but I don't know if I can handle all of this.
• safety. How can I protect myself? I have always been so careful. I never thought this could happen to me.
• independence. I want to limit my activities now and stay at home. I want someone else to tell me what to do.
• the medical examination. I haven't had a pelvic examination in years. I feel so ashamed.
• physical injuries. It is taking so much time to heal. I feel bruised and sore all over and I'm worried about my health.
• oral rape. I feel so nauseated, I hate to think about it.
• anal rape. Not only do I hurt, but the thought of what happened disgusts me.
• talking about it. I don't know if I should tell my children. I feel embarrassed and I don't want to upset them.

These are normal reactions and talking them out with someone who understands your concerns can help you deal with them. You or a person close to you can call a rape crisis centre or sexual assault centre for information or advice or to ask for someone to keep you company in the emergency room.

Sponsor

NSW Rape Crisis Centre

Disclaimer Copyright Updated: 25 Sep 2009