I have to say I'm stunned by the descriptions of how cats have been treated. Screaming in an animal's face for being an animal? Smacking it for being an animal?

It will fare better at a no-kill shelter.

People do adopt older cats. I've adopted four over the years because people are selfish and go for the kittens. My older cats have been loving, well-trained and abandoned for the worst reasons. A pregnancy, rentals where cats aren't allowed, etc.

Your cat would be best placed with an experienced cat owner who understands cat behavior and can train her properly.