Australia’s peak seniors advocate, COTA Australia, today congratulated Australian of the Year Ita Buttrose and Senior Australian of the Year Professor Ian Maddocks – both of whom have greatly advanced the causes of older Australians through tireless work in dementia and palliative care respectively.
COTA’s CE Ian Yates said the Australian of the Year awards provide an ideal opportunity for recognising the energy, skill and achievements of older Australians and those who advocate on their behalf.
“Ita is an inspiring national icon who has turned her considerable passion and talent to raise awareness of, and advocate for, the 300,000 Australians living with dementia and their families and carers.
“Her efforts as president of Alzheimer’s Australia have made a significant contribution to seeing dementia elevated to the same level of importance as other chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
“Unless things change, in the not too distant future there will be about two million Australians living with dementia, affecting many more family, friends and carers.
“We look forward to continue working with Alzheimer’s Australia to secure greater government investment in research, early detection and support for older people’s mental health.”
Mr Yates said many older Australians and families would welcome the recognition of the work of Emeritus Professor Ian Maddocks.
“Issues relating to death and dying have long been a taboo subject and it is thanks to strong advocates such as Professor Ian Maddocks that major advances have been made in palliative care for people who are dying.
“I hope that this award to such an eminent leader in the field of palliative care will trigger a national conversation about death and dying throughout 2013 so older people can have a stronger voice on this critical issue.”
Mr Yates said that both Ita Buttrose and Ian Maddocks demonstrate the meaningful and ongoing contribution made by older Australians to our communities.
“We’re all living longer and, with support, we can continue to contribute actively and selflessly to our communities and families across Australia.
“Every community benefits from the skills and experience of its older members, and the 2013 Australia Day awards stand testament to that having no limits,” Mr Yates said.
Media contact: Ian Yates 0418 835 439, Jane Garcia 0434 489 533
