Renowned Physiotherapist and Researcher to Enhance Health and Wellbeing Programs
Whiddon has announced the appointment of Dr Jennifer Hewitt, an expert in positive ageing, to their team. Dr Hewitt, a practising physiotherapist and clinical researcher, brings her passion for delivering best-practice health and wellbeing programs to further enhance Whiddon’s commitment to care.
Recently, Dr Hewitt received the prestigious Global Ageing Trailblazer Award at the recent Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards. This esteemed recognition, amidst over 200 submissions from 17 countries, acknowledges her as a leading trailblazer in the field of ageing within the Asia Pacific Region. Her multi-disciplinary leadership in ageing has been lauded for inspiring positive change in her home country.
Expressing enthusiasm about the new addition, Whiddon’s CEO, Chris Mamarelis, stated, “We are excited to have Jennie join our team at Whiddon, strengthening the incredible expertise of our Research and Positive Ageing Team, led by Karn Nelson. Jennie has already worked closely with us on our new Exercise 4 Life Program, which is seeing incredible outcomes for our residents and clients in the areas of Pain Management and Re-ablement. We look forward to seeing the continuing difference Jennie will make as part of our team.”
Dr Hewitt’s accomplishments extend beyond her recent award. She has been honoured with the ACSA National Lifetime Achievement Award and a National Commendation for Better Practice from the Aged Care Quality Agency. Her work on an exercise program for aged care residents resulted in a remarkable 55% reduction in falls, earning international recognition. The paper detailing her research was deemed “most likely to influence policy and practice” by the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association.
Furthermore, Dr Hewitt played a crucial role as an expert witness in the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. She advocated for improved access to rehabilitation and re-ablement programs for residents. Recognising her expertise, the Federal Department of Health appointed her as a Technical Advisor for the implementation of her falls prevention program, known as the Sunbeam Program, in over 100 aged care facilities nationwide.
With Dr Jennifer Hewitt joining their Research and Positive Ageing Team, Whiddon reinforces its commitment to providing exceptional care and enhancing the lives of their residents through evidence-based programs and research-driven initiatives.
