Professor Gill Lewin from Curtin University’s Centre for Research on Ageing has been awarded the 2013 Council on the Ageing (COTA) Western Australia Champion for Seniors Award for her research into the benefits of a restorative approach in home care.
Prof Lewin’s research findings have resulted in the adoption of restorative approaches by a number of home care providers around Australia and have influenced the care models adopted by Home and Community Care (HACC) programs in Victoria and WA.
Her research has also made a significant contribution internationally where her work has been used in the United Kingdom to support the expansion of a restorative approach throughout local government social care services.
Prof Lewin, who is also Research Director at Silver Chain, said everyone, whatever their age or diagnosis, should be given the opportunity to receive a service with a restorative focus.
“To maximise someone’s health and wellbeing is essential to their full participation in life,” she said.
Her research has shown that a restorative approach in home care support programs improves an older person’s independence and reduces their need for health and aged care services.
The COTA WA Champion for Seniors Award acknowledges individuals who work to improve the quality of life of seniors or retirees.
Read more about her research findings. ‘Health and financial benefits of reablement highlighted’
