Fronditha Care has celebrated the launch of the Fronditha Care Foundation, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s mission.
The Foundation, born out of the desire to influence culturally appropriate service design for Australia’s rapidly growing diverse ageing population, will provide grants for health and wellbeing projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing care for elders from culturally diverse backgrounds.
Prominent journalist Patricia Karvelas was the event’s main speaker. She shared personal reflections on her Greek Australian upbringing and the importance of maintaining cultural traditions through intergenerational connections.
Karvelas also highlighted the challenges faced by older Australians from diverse backgrounds in accessing culturally sensitive care and expressed her excitement for the research-driven innovation the Foundation aims to bring to the sector.
“I watched my grandparents interact with a healthcare system that wasn’t built for them, and it put a fire in my belly to advocate for better care. As our population ages, we need more evidence-based, culturally appropriate care for all communities,” Karvelas said.
The journalist also spoke about the opportunities to partner with First Nations elders and harness their wisdom and knowledge in relation to the benefits of social connection and community in ageing.
The Foundation has already begun work with key organisations such as Dementia Australia, Aged Care Research & Industry Innovation Australia and the Aged & Community Care Providers Association.
Dr Stella Laletas, Chair of the Fronditha Care Foundation, commented on the launch, “The creation of this Foundation is a pivotal moment for culturally appropriate aged care in Australia. We are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of elders from diverse communities, and through our grant programs and partnerships, we aim to create lasting, meaningful impact for generations to come.”
Aimee Chambers, State Manager for Victoria at the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, shared her enthusiasm about the future of aged care.
“It’s exciting to see innovation and development happening in a sector that has faced many challenges. I look forward to seeing the outcomes from this Foundation’s work and the connections it will create across aged care,” Ms Chambers said.
Fronditha Care CEO Faye Spiteri OAM emceed the night. She spoke passionately about Fronditha Care‘s new chapter and how the organisation’s experience and expertise can help the Fronditha Care Foundation flourish and make a lasting impact on the aged care sector and elders of culturally diverse backgrounds.
To learn more or donate to the Fronditha Care Foundation, visit frondithacarefoundation.org.
