Townsville seniors raise their voices to address elder abuse
There’s a serious reason behind these Townsville senior’s happy songs.
Townsville
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A TOWNSVILLE choir is raising its voice, not only in song, but to call loudly for greater awareness about the important issues affecting our seniors.
For almost a decade, the grassroots Seniors Creating Change choir has sung in public places to raise awareness about ageism and social isolation, while empowering seniors to address the scourge of elder abuse. Aitkenvale resident Valerie Forrest, 84, joined the choir’s ranks seven years ago, seizing on an opportunity to sing and socialise with people her age.
She eagerly anticipates the group’s fortnightly rehearsals and public performances at local shopping centres and aged care facilities, in celebration of Seniors Week and UN International Day of Older Persons.
“I do love the singing. I just look forward to be able to sit down with all the girls and have a bit of a sing song,” Ms Forrest said.
Their song books span a wide variety of styles from traditional Irish tunes, to classic songs like I Still Call Australia Home, These Boots Were Made for Walking and the more recent hit I’m Gonna Be (500 miles).
“They’re all sort of happy songs that are a little bit upbeat,” she said.
“A lot of the oldies have been in the war so we present a medley of old war songs and they love to stomp their feet and clap their hands and carry on.”
Ms Forrest said there was a serious side to their work in the community, where they “shine a light on elder abuse”.
Elder abuse is any act, unintentional or deliberate, which causes emotional, physical or financial harm to an older person, carried out by someone they know and trust.
If you are interested in becoming a part of SCC, call 4721 5511.
Originally published as Townsville seniors raise their voices to address elder abuse
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