High Rates of Violence : People with disabilities experience sexual assault and domestic violence at rates significantly higher than the general population. This disparity is especially stark among individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. For example, women with disabilities are almost twice as likely to be victims of sexual violence than those without disabilities, and individuals with cognitive impairments face even greater risk.

Caregiver Abuse: Many survivors with disabilities rely on caregivers for their basic needs, which can create power imbalances and leave them vulnerable to abuse. Caregivers may withhold essential support, use physical or emotional coercion, or exploit their position of authority to perpetrate violence. This dynamic makes it difficult for survivors to report abuse, especially when their abuser is also responsible for their day-to-day care.

Isolation and Accessibility Barriers: Survivors with disabilities often experience greater social isolation due to physical or environmental barriers, limiting their ability to access support networks. Additionally, traditional services for survivors may not be fully accessible. Many shelters, hotlines, and counseling services lack the resources to provide adequate support for individuals with mobility, hearing, vision, or communication challenges, further compounding their difficulties in seeking help.

Lack of Awareness and Advocacy: Despite the higher prevalence of violence among people with disabilities, their experiences are often overlooked by mainstream advocacy efforts. This lack of visibility results in fewer specialized services, limited public awareness, and inadequate legal protections for disabled survivors. Raising awareness and creating disability-sensitive advocacy are essential steps in ensuring that all survivors receive the attention and support they deserve.