Invisible to invincible: the leading women in modern ageing that are showing us the way
You simply cannot be what you cannot see, and on International Womens' Day I want to take the time to acknowledge the trailblazing women in modern ageing in Australia.
Over the past few decades, Australian women have played a critical role in transforming the ageing and healthcare industries. From groundbreaking research to innovative policies, women have led the way in improving the lives of older adults and enhancing the quality of healthcare and financial services. As we celebrate International Women's Day, it's important to recognise the remarkable contributions of these women and how they have shaped the present and future of ageing and healthcare.
So let’s celebrate some of those silently making a difference. These trailblazing women have made significant contributions to research, policy development, and advocacy, leading the way to improve the lives of older adults and enhance the quality of healthcare.
Professor Karen Canfell is an epidemiologist whose work has been instrumental in developing cancer prevention strategies such as the National Cervical Screening Program. Her efforts have significantly reduced the incidence of cervical cancer in Australia, saving countless lives.
Professor Susan Kurrle, a geriatrician and researcher, has been a leading advocate for improving the quality of care for older adults. She has developed innovative models of care, such as the Hospital in the Nursing Home program, which provides high-quality hospital-level care to older adults in residential aged care facilities.
Dr. Merrilyn Walton, a patient safety advocate, has worked tirelessly to improve the quality and safety of healthcare in Australia. She has been a vocal advocate for patient-centered care and has developed innovative programs such as the Speak Up program, empowering patients to speak up about their healthcare experiences.
Professor Wendy Moyle's groundbreaking research has focused on developing assistive technologies, such as virtual reality and social robots, to support older adults with dementia. Her work has improved the quality of life of people with dementia and their carers.
Professor Lynne Parkinson's research has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the social and cultural dimensions of ageing. She has been a vocal advocate for developing community-based interventions to address issues such as social isolation and loneliness.
Dr. Mary-Ann Liethof, a geriatrician and researcher, has been a leading advocate for improving the quality of end-of-life care for older adults. Her innovative models of care, such as the Hospital Palliative Care at Home program, provide high-quality palliative care to older adults in their own homes.
Dr. Kay Patterson, Australia's first Age Discrimination Commissioner, has been a leading voice in advocating for the rights of older adults. She has worked to promote policies that support healthy ageing and combat ageism.
Professor Rhonda Nay's research has focused on developing innovative models of care for older adults with complex health needs. She has been a vocal advocate for developing person-centred approaches to care, highlighting the importance of chronic disease management and care coordination.
And let us not forget Deborah Ralston, whose leadership as the Chair of the Retirement Income Review panel led to important policy changes to improve the retirement system for all Australians.
These women, and countless others like them, have made significant contributions to the fields of ageing, retirement finance and healthcare in Australia. Their efforts have shaped a future where older adults can live healthy, fulfilling lives and access high-quality healthcare. As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us remember and honour these pioneering Australian women who have made this future possible.
To the older women that paved the way, I say, thank-you!
Got others we should acknowledge? Please leave a comment on the article here.
Great article and well deserved accolades.