Seniors to go on ‘strike’?

Ray Glickman, aged care reform activist and Amana Living chief executive, will this week give a thought provoking presentation on the contribution made by older people to society – and what might happen if they went on strike.

Mr Glickman will present his keynote speech at the ‘Talkin’ About Your Generation’ conference in Perth, a two day conference presented by Aged & Community Services WA (ACSWA) and Alzheimer’s Australia WA.

He will identify the assets and contributions that older people continue to make to society, and demonstrate what might actually happen if they weren’t there, supporting the system for the overall social good.

Known in the aged care industry for his public advocacy on aged care issues, he hopes to inspire delegates to fight even harder to help older people get a fair go from a society that undervalues them, or worse, ignores them.

“My aim is to provoke people into linking arms with our older people in solidarity, until the federal government sits up and takes notice..

The conference, at Crown Perth, Great Eastern Highway, Burswood, will see more than 20 speakers from across the aged care sector explore the challenges facing the industry in 2013 and beyond.

It comes at a key time for the aged care industry, as controversy continues over the federal government’s proposal to shift funds from residential care subsidies into a wage supplement.

Other keynote speakers include Dr Allen Power, a New York based advocate for international not for profit organisation the Eden Alternative.

ACSWA chief executive, Stephen Kobelke, said the conference was regarded by industry leaders and decision makers alike as the must attend event of 2013.

“This conference comes at a key time in Australia’s political cycle and a critical time in the reform process,”he said.

“Our sector is committed to developing and maintaining best practice and this event will enable delegates to meet from across the country to explore these complex challenges and the innovations already being seen in the sector today.”

The Aged & Community Services WA, in partnership with Alzheimer’s Australia WA, will host the Talkin’ About Your Generation conference this Thursday, 9 May to Friday, 10 May 2013 at the Crown Perth (formerly Burswood Entertainment Complex).