The newly established Global Centre for Modern Ageing (GCMA) has added another international heavyweight, Dr John Beard, to its Board.

The Centre’s Chair, renowned businessman Raymond Spencer, said the Global Centre for Modern Ageing was delighted with Dr Beard’s appointment and believe his expertise, gravitas and experience will help ensure the Centre delivers on its mission to take South Australia to the forefront of modern ageing in Australia and the world.

“Throughout his career, and most recently as the Director of the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Department of Ageing and Life Course, Dr Beard has gained unique insight into the challenges and opportunities this growing market presents for the world, and we are privileged to have him as part of the GCMA team,” said Raymond Spencer.

On his appointment to the GCMA Board, Dr Beard expressed his passion for reframing the way people think about ageing and older people.

“With ageing populations set to soar, increasing awareness of ageing, building a sound evidence base on ageing-related issues and developing the right policies and tools that can help address the influence of ageing on global, regional and national health is imperative,” said Dr Beard.

“There are very few organisations in the world who are wholly committed to understanding the global ageing phenomena and working with people, businesses and governments to propel the Modern Ageing narrative forward, so I am proud to be a part of this important organisation.”

“I look forward to working with the GCMA Board and executive as we work to ensure all older people are given the best opportunity to live and age well,” Dr Beard added.

The Global Centre for Modern Ageing’s CEO Julianne Parkinson said that with the ABS data stating the number of people over 65 in Australia is growing rapidly - from 3.7 million in 2016 to nearly 6 million by 2031, the GCMA is focused on what this new Modern Ageing sector could mean for Australia and abroad.

“The GCMA provide access to insights and world class processes to best position South Australian companies to understand the older people’s changing needs and wants and to cocreate needed products and services,” said Ms Parkinson.

“The social impact that will come in empowering and supporting people in their 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond through the transition of their full life’s course will not only allow us to tap into this most powerful asset but, in fact, it will create a better place to live for South Australians of all generations,” Ms Parkinson added.

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For media enquiries, please contact Nicola Barr, nicola.barr@gcma.net.au or 0422 594 615