The population’s senior segment is growing far more quickly than the overall population. In Bangladesh, older women have a disproportionately poor position in all spheres of society. Their ability to influence family finances and decision-making is diminished. Many elderly people in Bangladesh live in poverty and in poor health, which puts the elderly population at serious risk. The two biggest things endangering the health of the elderly are poverty and social isolation.
Bangladesh is one of the most populated countries in the world. The total population of Bangladesh is approximately 16.37 million with a growth rate 1.57 per cent. About 60% of the populations in Dhaka city are migrants where more than 65% of the people live in slum areas. There are 9048 slums in six division city of Bangladesh which are 75% situated in Dhaka city. Here most of the people are young and older women who are maximum get abused by family, or drive away from the home. The physical condition of slums is characterized by high density living, improper utilization of public goods, lack of basic amenities, unhygienic and polluted environment, poor literacy rate, unemployment, crime, social, moral and psychological degradation and poor health.
Women who experience physical abuse within their families face a wide range of serious and often overlapping problems. Here are the key challenges they might encounter:
Immediate Injuries: Bruises, broken bones, internal injuries, and other physical trauma are common consequences of physical abuse.
Long-Term Health Problems: Chronic pain, disabilities, and untreated injuries can lead to lasting physical health issues.
Impact on Reproductive Health: Abuse may result in unintended pregnancies, complications from forced or unsafe abortions, and gynecological issues.
Anxiety and Depression: Continuous abuse often leads to mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Low Self-Esteem: Repeated physical abuse can erode a woman’s self-worth, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and hopelessness.
Suicidal Thoughts: In severe cases, some women may develop suicidal ideation due to the overwhelming emotional pain and sense of entrapment.
Control and Isolation by the Abuser: Abusers often isolate their victims from friends, family, and support systems, making it harder for them to seek help or even recognize that help is available.
Stigma and Shame: Cultural or societal stigmas related to discussing family abuse can prevent a woman from speaking out or seeking support.
Financial Control: Abusers may control finances, leaving the woman without money or resources to leave or seek help.
Lack of Employment or Education Opportunities: Some women are kept from working or continuing their education, making them more dependent on their abuser and less able to become self-sufficient.
Fear of Legal Repercussions: Women may fear that reporting the abuse could lead to losing custody of their children, deportation (if immigration status is insecure), or other legal complications.
Child Custody Issues: Abusers may threaten to take away children or use custody battles as a means to continue exerting control.
Ineffective Legal Protection: Restraining orders or legal protections may be difficult to obtain or may not be enforced effectively, leaving the woman at risk.
Children Witnessing Abuse: Children who witness the abuse can experience trauma, behavioral issues, and mental health challenges. They may also be directly targeted by the abuser.
Fear of Losing Custody: Some women stay in abusive relationships to avoid being separated from their children or because they fear that leaving would put their children at risk.
Cultural Expectations: In some cultures, societal norms may pressure women to stay in abusive relationships due to traditional beliefs about family roles, marriage, or honor.
Religious Beliefs: Some women may feel compelled to remain in abusive relationships due to religious teachings or the fear of community judgment.
Lack of Knowledge or Resources: Some women are unaware of the resources available to them, such as shelters, hotlines, or legal aid.
Fear of Retaliation: Many women fear that seeking help or leaving could lead to more severe violence from the abuser.
Mistrust in Authorities: Past negative experiences with law enforcement or social services may prevent women from reporting abuse.
These overlapping challenges make life incredibly difficult for elderly homeless women or for an abused woman. Effective solutions require a combination of healthcare, social support, housing, advocacy tailored to their unique needs. Support systems, such as shelters, counseling, legal aid, and strong community networks, are crucial for helping women navigate and overcome these challenges. And we (Gingham Foundation) are here to give them that much support to find out another face of their life. To provide an elderly homeless woman a place to lead with a peaceful and mind in their last moment.
Manipulation and Gaslighting: Abusers often use psychological tactics to make the victim doubt her own reality, making it harder for her to recognize the severity of the situation or take action.
False Promises: Abusers may apologize and promise to change, leading to cycles of reconciliation followed by renewed abuse.
Phone: +880-9677-700700, +880-1878-700700
Email: helpbox@gingham.com.bd
Address: House 12, Road 19, Sector 11, Uttara, Dhaka 1230.
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