It’s not about moving on. It’s about moving forward  –  by shedding light on dementia care realities in 2023.

Authors: Linda Steele, PhD, and Kate Swaffer, PhD candidate

2023 Breaking News:  The research report, “Reparations for people with dementia in aged care,” 🎉 has arrived, unveiling a sobering look at dementia care. This research, presented by dedicated academics Kate Swaffer & Linda Steele, delves deep into the often-overlooked side of residential care for individuals living with dementia. 🏡💔

In their case study, these researchers highlight the pressing need for reparations to address the wrongs faced by people with dementia—similar to how society acknowledges other forms of exploitation, like that of children. 🙏

This report reveals the harsh realities of residential care. We call Kate and Linda heroes because they fearlessly confront the raw side of the issue and stand up to injustice in their quest for reparations. 💪

Confronting this topic is tough, but it’s time to open up the conversation. Let’s raise awareness and work together to make a change. 🤝

Let’s get started with the Final Report – presented in two formats:

For our readers with limited time, the authors have prepared the report in an Easy Read Format, presented with pictures and BIG PRINT. For the full report, Find Final Report here.       

Key findings:

The report found many common beliefs amongst all stakeholders about the need for reparations. This includes recognition of the human rights abuses faced by people living with dementia and support for concrete steps to address these issues.

It was found that:

  • Many people aren’t believed when they raise concerns about their care or the care of their loved ones.
  • It is vital that the community learns the truth about what happens in dementia care.
  • The government has not said sorry for past human rights abuses.
  • There is no financial compensation for those who have suffered human rights abuses.

Research Authors: 

Kudos and deep-felt thanks to Kate Swaffer and Linda Steele, the Dementia Justice researchers whose tireless efforts help to advance the human rights of people living with dementia.

Photo - Linda Steele, PhDLinda Steele, PhD, is an associate professor in the Faculty of Law, University of Technology Sydney, and an honorary fellow at the School of Business and Law, University of Wollongong, Australia.

 

Kate Swaffer, PhD candidate, is an independent researcher and author, a global campaigner for the rights of people with dementia and older persons, and an honorary associate fellow at the Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Australia.

Kate is frequently referenced in this website, ABeautifulVoice.org. Her bio can be found on our Influencers page as one of “13 Influencers” whose work resonated with the ranchers’ alternative lifestyle. Find Kate’s bio here. She has been a friend and supporter to me personally and an inspiration and champion for many.

Funding: The research was paid for by Dementia Australia Research Foundation.

Citation: Linda Steele and Kate Swaffer, Reparations for Harm to People Living with Dementia in Residential Aged Care – Executive Summary (University of Technology Sydney, 2023)

Also find our review here:

Part I – Reparations for harms experienced in residential aged care – a review

Part II – Reparations Report in Australia – Will This Impact the US System?

Part III – Reparations Update – What Does Change Look Like?

Posted by: Susan Troyer, Website author and curator