THEORETICAL AND LEGAL ANALYSIS OF THE SITUATION OF ELDERLY PEOPLE WHO BECAME VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Abstract
The article analyzes the situation of elderly people who have become victims of domestic violence in the context of theoretical and legal science. It is indicated that domestic violence affects the physical and mental state of the elderly in the most vulnerable period of their lives. Physical injuries, such as fractures, organ damage or scratches, can cause serious consequences for their physiological state, and in some cases even be life-threatening. However, the impact of domestic violence on the psychological aspect of the life of the elderly is no less important. Systemic psychological and mental trauma can lead to the appearance of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress syndrome, can cause a threat to their general mental health, affecting their quality of life and the possibility of self-realization. Elderly people, due to the peculiarities of their situation, are especially vulnerable to domestic violence. Physical dependence, specific medical needs and lack of financial independence increase their vulnerability. In the conditions of difficulties related to the military-political realities in Ukraine, limited access to medical care and psychological support complicates the situation even more. It is necessary to provide comprehensive assistance, taking into account the unique needs of this group, and to take measures to prevent and identify cases of violence in the family environment. In general, the fight against domestic violence against the elderly is a necessary component of the modern humanitarian approach to the protection of human rights and the creation of a safe and just society. The complex of proposed measures regarding the policy of prevention and counteraction of domestic violence among the elderly has been singled out in four important directions: raising the level of public awareness regarding the prevention of domestic violence and active counteraction to this negative phenomenon; strengthening of legal protection, support mechanisms for the elderly, work on the harmonization of family relations. Ideally, violence prevention strategies should proceed from the level of the individual and their relationships to public policy and higher-level structures. Strategies should incorporate the principles of healthy aging by optimizing the physical, social and mental health of older people and enabling them to remain independent and participate in their communities.
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