act-ively preventing elder abuse
To understand Elder Abuse, Theatre of the Beat believes that we first need to recognize the ways our society discriminates against older adults.
This workshop uses role play, videos, and discussion to explore possible occurrences of ageism, and to provide participants with a safe space for practicing their responses in these situations.
This unique, experiential approach helps to empower older adults to spot possible situations of abuse, and teaches practical skills to ensure that older adults are not ignored, controlled, or harmed by others.
Workshop Goals
Your group will:
Define elder abuse and understand how ageism manifests in our society
Identify the types of elder abuse and warning signs to look out for within both oppressors and survivors
Use Augusto Boal’s Forum Theatre method to develop effective strategies for preventing elder abuse in their communities
Learn to use the memorable tool “See it, Name it, Check it”
Be equipped with a resource package for further knowledge on how to be an active bystander and a list of Senior’s crisis lines to call.
this workshop now includes:
Updated content to specifically serve both seniors AND caregivers together
Interactive video modules to increase accessibility
Enhanced resource materials for participants to take home
Workshop REQUIREMENTS
TIME 1-2 hours
PARTICIPANTS 10-30
INSTRUCTORS 1 facilitator / 30 participants
DRAMA EXPERIENCE None required
SPACE One large room and chairs
Questions?
Email Theatre of the Beat’s Education Manager, Murilo Salvador to learn more: murilo@theatreofthebeat.ca.
Research & Efficacy
In the summer of 2022, Theatre of the Beat connected with older adult groups across Ontario to research the topic of elder abuse. This resulted in the creation of an original play entitled, Mother: an exploration of the dark and desperate realities of financial elder abuse, and inspired the creation of this urgent and necessary workshop.
The production toured from Ontario to British Columbia during the Fall of 2023, and was performed in senior’s residences and long-term care homes across the country, while the workshop has been led +50 times throughout Ontario.
