Campaign to tackle elder abuse taken to next stage

A SUNSHINE Coast lawyer has turned to the time-honoured practice of cause theatre to cast a spotlight on one of society’s last taboo topics: elder abuse.

A free staged reading of Piano Forte, written by Suncoast Community Legal Service’s Toni Wills, will debut at the University of the Sunshine Coast on April 10.

Toni wrote the script as part of her Masters in Creative Writing, drawing on interviews, transcripts and archival material to tell the story of one woman’s experience of elder abuse juxtaposed with the legal information to safeguard her.

In Piano Forte, 80-year-old Eliza lives alone. Her grandson Robert is her carer and has power of attorney over her estate.

The responsibility of this role and the competing loyalties Robert has to his pregnant wife Lucy affect how he can perform his duties.

“Elder abuse remains hidden in society, in part due to a lack of awareness and ageism, as well as the fact that 80 per cent of the perpetrators of abuse are family members,” Toni said.

“Sensitive topics like domestic violence are discussed more openly now within community. I think it’s time we talked more about elder abuse.

“In bringing the issue of elder abuse to the stage, I hope to raise public awareness and help empower older people, increasing their willingness to speak up.”

Piano Forte will be presented as a staged script at the university’s Lecture Theatre 2, Building K, at 6pm. Toni hopes to source funding to develop the theatrical production for community theatres and centres.