Education event honours two leaders in geriatric care

During the 13^th Annual Update in Geriatrics Education Day on Nov. 15, two highly respected health care leaders received prestigious awards to acknowledge their impact in geriatric care and the health community.

Patricia (Pat) Mandy, an award-winning health care leader and honorary doctorate recipient, was presented the Lifelong Achievement Award. Patricia (Pat) Ford, a McMaster University’s School of Nursing faculty member and pioneer in the development of interprofessional geriatric care, received the Clinical Excellence Award.

With over 500 health care professionals in attendance, the virtual education day highlighted the latest approaches to care of older adults including sessions on falls, dementia, osteoporosis and fracture prevention, deconditioning and palliative care. Several McMaster faculty members from the Division of Geriatric Medicine, the School of Nursing, and the Department of Family Medicine presented; including Mimi Wang, Justin Lee, Alexandra Papaioannou, Sharon Kaasalainen, and Anne Boyle.

Mark Crowther, chair of the Department of Medicine at McMaster, opened the education day welcoming all attendees and speakers, and then presented the Clinical Excellence Award to Ford. “Her relentless dedication, leadership, and commitment to older adults have had a profound impact on her colleagues, patients, and their families. Her selfless approach, lifelong learning, and unwavering advocacy for senior-friendly care exemplify the spirit of the Clinical Excellence Award,” says Crowther.

Paul O’Byrne, dean and vice-president of the Faculty of Health Sciences, then presented the Lifelong Achievement Award to Mandy. “Pat Mandy has dedicated her life to improving Indigenous healthcare and passionately advocating for the well-being of Indigenous people across Ontario. Over her more than 45-year long career, Pat’s contributions have left a strong and lasting impact on the healthcare community,” says O’Byrne.

Mandy and Ford were given their physical awards and certificates at McMaster University on Nov. 2, prior to the virtual education day. They were presented with Barb Sachs’ polar bear sculptures, which are known as a national emblematic symbol and have been presented to visiting Heads of State in the past, including the Queen of England and former President Nelson Mandela.

“I am truly overwhelmed at this recognition of my work with seniors. Looking back over the years I could never have imagined this honour. I am humbled by it,” says Ford.

For Mandy, the Lifelong Achievement Award is especially meaningful. “I am particularly thankful and proud to receive this recognition from those who are leaders in supporting our Elders, many of whom have been my mentors and teachers,” says Mandy.

The education day provided opportunity to share knowledge that inspired connection and collaboration among attendees, while also highlighting two tremendous leaders for all the contributions they’ve made thus far to geriatric care and the entire health care community.