Gwenda Darling, a Palawa woman, was diagnosed in 2012 with younger onset dementia; at 59, it was a shocking and challenging discovery. She had already survived many traumatic experiences with an alcoholic father who struggled with PTSD following World War II, incest and domestic violence.

Gwenda has invested her life and career advocating for trauma-informed care for all age groups and people, including Aboriginal Australian children, LGBTI+ and other minority groups. Since her diagnosis, she remains a respected, influential voice for choice and control in aged care settings, and believes that medication, isolation or restraint should be a last resort. 

Gwenda participates in dementia research and is actively involved with the Aged Care Council of Elders, Older Persons Advocacy Network and Dementia Australia. She advocates for the human rights and dignity of all older Australians.

The living embodiment of commitment, strength and resilience, Gwenda’s no-nonsense attitude has improved understanding, giving hope for countless older Australians.