Because of environmental barriers, people with physical disabilities are already isolated. The batterer may be increasing that isolation through such tactics as removing the wheelchair ramp, removing the T.D.D., or not helping you get places. If you are unable to drive a car, use a bus, or a cab, it could be more difficult for you to escape. There is a myth that caretakers batter people with disabilities because they are frustrated with taking care of them. This is not true.
Assailants batter in order to control.
Help is available through the groups listed in this book. Give them a call. If you are elderly If you are no longer independent, you may be depending on someone for care who is abusing or neglecting you. Many older people are afraid to report abusive caregivers for fear of retaliation. You may think that if this caregiver is out of the picture, you will have nowhere to go.