An increasing number of victims suffer abuse later in life
For Immediate ReleaseContact: Jeff Sabato, MAG, 602-452-5073
Phoenix (September 24, 2025) – Domestic violence knows no boundaries. It can touch anyone, and for a growing number of older Americans, becoming the victim of abuse later in life is a tragic reality. October is recognized nationally as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in honor of the victims and survivors, as well as those working to keep people safe.
Key Facts:
- In Arizona, 43 percent of women and 33 percent of men experience domestic violence, according to the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence.
- The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office reports that one in 10 people over 60 is a victim of abuse, an increase since 2022.
- In 2024, Adult Protective Services notes there were 42,416 allegations of elder abuse in Arizona – a rate that has already been surpassed in 2025.
- A US Department of Justice study found that only one out of every 24 cases of elder abuse is reported.
Why It Is Important:
“Domestic violence devastates families and fractures the foundations of our communities. Our commitment to this issue is vital to creating safer futures for individuals and restoring stability to families and society,” said El Mirage Mayor Alexis Hermosillo, Chair of the Maricopa Association of Governments.
Tempe Vice Mayor Doreen Garlid, Chair of MAG’s Community Initiatives Coordinating Committee (CICC), says, “Coordinating a strong regional response is essential to protecting victims and holding abusers accountable. Working together to address domestic violence is more effective than working alone.” The committee coordinates responses to regional human services issues like domestic violence.
This year, the CICC is drawing specific attention to elder abuse.
According to calls to the National Center on Elder Abuse resource line, family members were the perpetrators in nearly 47 percent of reported incidents. Medical caregivers were the perpetrators in almost 13 percent of cases.
The State of Arizona is also partnering with MAG to improve coordination of resources and collaboration of agencies that address elder abuse cases. Together, agencies are strengthening the statewide response to late-life domestic violence by updating the protocols used in elder abuse cases and in creating training manuals.
Download materials to distribute in your communities, or share your event and photos on MAG's Domestic Violence Awareness Month page.