Tune in to elder abuse at library screening

All people have a right to live dignified and self-determined lives, free from exploitation and abuse. That these rights do not diminish with age is the key message in Piano Forte, a fictional narrative which explores elder abuse and the collision between one family’s ambitions and the law.

Piano Forte will screen at the Moruya Library from 5.30pm on Thursday 28 March. Eurobodalla libraries manager Linda Heald said a discussion would follow the screening.

“This gives attendees the opportunity to talk through the issues raised. We’ll have representatives from Legal Aid NSW present to answer the questions that come up,” she said.

Ms Heald said Piano Forte centred on Eliza, a 78-year-old widow living alone in her own home, estranged from her only daughter, with grandson Robert holding sole power of attorney.

“As the plot progresses, Eliza is incapacitated and Robert uses some of Eliza’s money to help buy himself a house,” Ms Heald said.

“Through some plot twists, the money is returned. Finally Eliza moves into aged care, but on her own terms.”

Ms Heald said the screening and facilitated question-and-answer session had been well received elsewhere, with follow-up surveys revealing 65 per cent of audience members were aged 55 years and over and 83 per cent saying they had learnt new legal information.

A light refreshment will be served. Bookings are required on 02 4474 1333.

The screening is run by Eurobodalla Library Service in partnership with the State Library of NSW and Legal Aid NSW.