Characteristics and correlates of intimate partner violence among older adult veterans, 2005-2007

Despite evidence of increased rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) among veterans of military service, little is known about the characteristics and correlates of violence among older adults. The main objectives of this study were to calculate the prevalence of IPV victimization among older adult veterans, describe differences in prevalence associated with history of military service, identify differences in correlates of IPV among male and female Veterans, and identify relationship and contextual characteristics associated with increased odds of IPV victimization. Primary data for this study were obtained from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (2005-2007), an annual survey of non-institutionalized U.S. adults. Data on IPV victimization was collected by states participating in an optional BRFSS IPV module. Data from the BRFSS survey were supplemented by information obtained by an ongoing study of adult male Veterans enrolled for benefits in the Veterans Health Administration in the upstate New York area. During each year of the study period approximately 50,000 veterans agreed to participate in BRFSS surveys. Approximately 74% of all participating veterans were age 55 years and older and approximately 95% were male. Results from this study highlight important gender and individual differences in the prevalence and correlates of IPV victimization among older adult Veterans. Data collected from male Veterans living in the upstate New York region is used to illustrate important differences in IPV perpetration or victimization alone versus IPV among males involved in relationships characterized by bidirectional violence.