SEXUAL ASSAULT OF THE ELDERLY VICTIM

This study evaluated elderly victims of rape and determined the variables affected solely by the patient's age. It was conducted in a non-hospital-based clinic that serves as the primary resource for rape victims in Shelby County, Tennessee. Fifty-three women, 55 years of age or older, were compared with 53 patients aged 18 to 45 who were selected for the control group. The racial composition was similar for both groups. There was no difference in the time interval to examination. Among the elderly, the majority of assaults (71.7%) took place at the victim's home, and most were by an unknown assailant. Genital injuries were more prevalent among the elderly victims. Intimidation by physical force was all that was necessary to subdue the victim in most cases, and the assailants' racial distribution was similar in both groups.