He Wouldn't Turn Me Loose

As the nation's demographics change and more Americans enter what used to be known as “old age,” awareness of elder abuse has grown. Co-produced with the National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Later Life, this short documentary details the case of a 96-year-old woman identified only as Miss Mary, who relates how her grandson and his wife exploited her—using her Social Security money to support their drinking habit, and forcing her to clean their home and cook their meals. After five years of monetary abuse, Miss Mary's grandson sexually assaulted her in an attack that lasted several hours and left her hospitalized. Although her family was skeptical of her claims, Miss Mary regained her strength and participated in the trial of her grandson. The subject matter here is very disturbing, to put it mildly, yet Miss Mary recalls her ordeal with a focus and remarkable calmness. Also included are interviews with senior services advocates who comment on the circumstances surrounding this case—which, sadly, is not as uncommon as it might sound. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)