Respect launches the 100 Club
Respect CEO Jason Binder tells AAA the club is Respect’s way of making sure the centenarians in their care are recognised and celebrated in a meaningful way.
Aged care provider Respect is celebrating the launch of the 100 Club, the latest initiative of the predominantly regionally based not-for-profit.
The 100 Club recognises the centenarians in Respect’s care and honours the century of stories, wisdom and life experiences they bring.
All 38 of the centenarians – 32 of them women – live in regional or rural Australia, Respect noted, despite such areas facing difficulties in accessing healthcare, aged care and community support.
Respect chief executive officer Jason Binder said the 100 Club is their way of saying thank you for the communities built by older people and a way of celebrating “a life well lived and a legacy to be proud of.”
“We believe in celebrating the lives and legacies of the people who built the country we have the privilege to call home. From that belief, the 100 Club was created to honour the extraordinary milestones of turning 100 and recognise those who built the communities we live in today,” Mr Binder told Australian Ageing Agenda.
“The 100 Club is our way of saying thank you and making sure these individuals are recognised and celebrated in a meaningful way.”
Centenarians receive a special gift or experience of their choice, a personal message from Respect and recognition across the organisation. Celebrations are organised by staff in collaboration with residents’ families, so that the events reflect the residents’ preferences.
Mr Binder told AAA that the response has been very positive, and that for many of the centenarians, the 100 Club has been an emotional experience.
“It’s not just about the celebration itself, it’s about being valued. Families have told us how much it’s meant to their loved ones to be honoured in this way, and our staff have embraced the opportunity to share each resident’s unique story,” he said.
“One of our General Managers mentioned that a resident who is 106 years [old] proudly shows off her Respect 100 Club certificate to family, friends and visitors – this has become as meaningful to her as her letter from the Queen and her recognition in Parliament.
“It’s a privilege to see the pride and happiness these celebrations bring.”
The not-for-profit provider has also created an honour board so people can read the stories and life experiences of residents who have joined the 100 Club.
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