Kate Swaffer is more than a name behind the Dementia Justice Report. She’s an advocate, a voice, and a beacon of hope for people living with dementia and older individuals worldwide. As a global campaigner, she’s consistently at the forefront, championing their rights and ensuring their voices are heard. To truly appreciate the depth and breadth of her impact, head to our Influencers page and delve into her extensive biography. Her story, drive, and dedication will inspire many.

Kate Swaffer at the United Nations podium advocating for the human rights of older people and people living with dementia.

Kate at the United Nations podium

How does one person lead the public discourse? Perhaps it’s Kate’s ability to articulate the message in a way which no one before her has done. Perhaps it’s her impressive work ethic or her ability to get in front of the right audience. Perhaps it’s her ability to inspire others with a message meant precisely for these times. Whatever the essence of her many accomplishments, Kate’s contributions as an influential advocate for human rights in aged and dementia care are totally inspiring by every standard.

I became aware of Kate’s leadership following her own diagnosis. It was 2011 – the year of Mother’s death and the final hours in our rite de passage at the ranch. The low bar in institutional dementia care standards had continued to drive my personal dedication to provide “a place for Miss Ethel.”

The mantra which prevailed from our first day to the final day of our ranch experience was, “It’s about dignity.” Over two decades following her diagnosis, her higher-level needs – her soul care needs – would become the very essence around which ABeautifulVoice.org would emerge.

Thus, I have had an abiding interest in Kate’s inspiring story and her remarkable ability to lift others up with her words, actions, and unstoppable role as an advocate. Her mission has resonated deeply.

Interdependent relationships are required in the dementia community for transformational work!

Kate has been a pioneer, a human rights advocate in dementia care, and a leader in the international dementia community. We need to hear her voice as our words and actions all help shape the future. Her voice resonates with a message for change. The “old narratives” must be challenged and the conventional storyline replaced by “new narratives.”

What the world needs now: responsible action

By not only identifying, but also amplifying, a new narrative for these days, she has been a welcome addition to the group of esteemed leaders included on our Influencers page. All are professionals whose body of work resonated with our experience at the ranch.

As she campaigns for human rights in aged and dementia care, she seeks to ensure that every person living with dementia receives the justice and support they deserve. Join us on this mission.

To access the Dementia Justice Report co-authored by Kate Swaffer and Linda Steele on “Reparations for Harms Experienced in Residential Aged Care,” three formats are included here:

HARVARD UNIVERSITY – THE HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS JOURNAL
https://lnkd.in/egusQnaR

FINAL REPORT
https://lnkd.in/e-rSGhy9

EASY READ REPORT – with big print & images
https://lnkd.in/e2X_BH8D

 

READ OUR REVIEW

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?

 

FOOTNOTE

Kate is frequently referenced in posts on 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 an inspiration and champion for many.

Posted by: Susan Troyer, Website author and curator