Nationwide, women with disabilities have identified issues of violence and abuse as the highest health priority. Estimates show that at least 85% of women with disabilities are victims of domestic violence compared to 25 to 50% of non-disabled women.

Further research shows that 83% of women with a disability will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime.

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Life with disability can create a fertile breeding ground for domestic violence since it also leads to dependence on another person for everyday physical needs. The problem is not limited to one gender - men living with disabilities are also at risk for domestic violence, but the prevalence seems to be much more significant for women.

 

To bring awareness to this issue, as well as information to assist those who might be facing abuse or at-risk, Friends’ Health Connection offered an unprecedented online lecture series involving many of the country’s leading organizations in the field. We have assembled speakers who not only know the domestic violence side of the issue but who also can speak about abuse in the context of disabilities.

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This series is not intended to serve as or replace medical advice.  

Appropriate medical advice should be sought by your own medical professional.