Community
21 February, 2025
Films address elder abuse
THREE local women have shared their experience of ageing through the creation of three short films.
The films have been developed as part of a campaign to change negative perceptions and ageist attitudes that devalue older adults leading to high rates of elder abuse.
The ‘Conversations about Ageing’ films, developed by Mpower in collaboration with First Ladies Productions, were launched by Mpower Interim CEO, Janette Lowe at a special event last week.
The films highlight the women’s common reflections that older people in our community are often not valued.
Ninety-two year old Shirley believes that being old is just a part of life.
“It brings certain freedoms but society thinks you are going to be useless and have no voice,” she said.
Janet (aged 72) doesn’t consider herself old and insists that, despite that ageing can bring constraints and limitations, we don’t have to be defined by these.
“Life can still bring big surprises for us,” she said.
While Jill (almost 60) has raised concerns about social attitudes towards ageing, and the standard of aged care and what that will mean for her in her later years.
The films form part of Mpower’s Elder Abuse Prevention Program “Everybody’s Business,” driving a community wide call to action to reduce the incidence of elder abuse.
One in six Australians experienced elder abuse in the past year including psychological, emotional, financial, physical abuse and neglect.
It is likely this number is higher than what is reported.
Often perpetrators of abuse are known to the older person, including their children and family members but can also be perpetrated in health and aged care.
Valuing older people in our community, alongside increasing awareness and knowledge, are key to prevention.
Mpower is working with the community and partners to drive programs to reduce elder abuse.
The films are available to watch on the Mpower website.
