My Year as National Dignity Ambassador
(posted: 15 January 2010)

Jackie Morris, BGS Dignity Lead said: “We welcome Sir Michael Parkinson’s report ‘My year as National Dignity Ambassador’.  Sir Michael has highlighted care of older people in care homes, sheltered accommodation and hospitals, describing some appalling breaches of care as well as some examples of outstanding care.  He obviously understands that care of older people in hospitals and care homes is difficult and complex and should be delivered with the utmost respect, kindness, dignity and humanity.

“He appreciates that society’s negative attitude towards old age could be partially responsible for the lack of dignified care within care homes and hospitals.  He recognizes that targets are not the only answer to poor care, but in addition there is a great need for better training about dementia and old age for all professionals.  Listening to older people must lead to improvements in care.

“The British Geriatrics Society is particularly pleased to note that Sir Michael publicly recognises that taking people to the toilet is a marker of good care and human rights.

“Sir Michael does not provide solutions.  The BGS has been working with a group of stakeholders on a poster which will remind those caring for older people of the basic principles of dignified care, not least the importance of remembering the individual and the person at all times.”

For further information, please contact the Press Officer This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at the British Geriatrics Society or call  020 7608 8573 or 07766 227724

Notes to Editors

1. The British Geriatrics Society (BGS) is a membership association of doctors, nurses, therapists, scientists and others with a particular interest in the care of the frail older person and in promoting better health in old age.

2. The BGS strives to promote better understanding of the healthcare needs of older people and to share examples of best practice to ensure that older patients are treated with dignity and respect by all clinical staff they come into contact with.

3. The BGS welcomes any healthcare professional with a particular interest in the care of older people to join the society and to benefit from its collective expertise.