Ageing my Way

Research Background: Enduring powers of attorney, advanced care directives, enduring guardianship & wills: these documents help individuals express & protect their interests. When used correctly, they can uphold an individual’s autonomy & dignity, & safeguard them from exploitation & abuse (Patterson & McDonald 2018). However, people are often reluctant to organise them or do not understand their roles (Mitchell et al. 2014; Palmer et al. 2006). Using interview extracts & photographs taken in their homes & communities, "Ageing My Way" respects & promotes older people's rights to self-determination by capturing & sharing their interests as a form of elder-abuse prevention. By raising awareness of older people’s rights & diverse choices, "Ageing My Way" creates opportunities to encourage the use of protective instruments, reduce misunderstanding & prevent misuse. Research Contribution: The research advanced knowledge by developing a new way to empower older people to share their desires for how they would like to age while also addressing ageism. By combining photographs with interview extracts, "Ageing My Way" integrated social science & creative arts research methods to directly & creatively engage older Tasmanians, their families & communities in conversations about older people’s right to security & autonomy. Research Statement: The exhibition was shown at the Waterside Pavilion (Hobart) from 29 May-2 June 2019. It is now a touring exhibition, being displayed by invitation at the Tramsheds (Launceston) on 1 October 2019 to launch Senior’s Week. It is also available online, posted to coincide with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2019 (15 June 2019). Invited presentations were made to Glenorchy School for Seniors & U3A Clarence. "Ageing My Way" was funded by the City of Hobart through a competitive grant process with $3,028 awarded to COTA Tas, with additional support via elder abuse prevention funding to COTA Tas from the Tasmanian State Government. It received in-kind support from the City of Hobart & COTA Tas.