The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population is aging and accounts for 5.4% of all Australians over 65yo, compared to 3.4% of those under 65yo. Health, social and economic disparities continue to exist across the life span related to enduring impacts of colonisation. This has resulted in dementia and frailty being occurring at high rates from younger age of onset, contributed to by high prevalence of chronic conditions. To support ageing well a life course approach is required based in community and primary care settings. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people advocate for strengths based approaches that incorporate factors contributing to a person’s strong inner spirit leading to improved quality of life.
Dr Rhiann Sue See (Waanyi) is, a geriatrician from Far North Queensland and has experience working in outreach clinics in both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Communities. She is also embarking on PhD studies aiming to co-design a program for Torres Strait Islanders living with a Mild Cognitive Impairment. Prof Dina LoGiudice is a non-First Nations geriatrician with over 20 years experience working in Aboriginal health and research. Together, they will discuss principles and models of care that can be utilised in the community to optimise the health and well-being of older Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander people, from both an urban and rural and remote perspective.