Who looks after the old folk? 

Dr Andrew Miller’s elderly mother moved in with him and his family in 2020. He shares some of the moments they’ve experienced since – some funny, some difficult, but always eye opening and thought provoking.  

Caring for his mother has shaped Dr Miller’s view that defeating ageism starts with seeing the elderly as people. People who deserve dignity, care and respect. 

Dr Miller explores the systemic and personal challenges of aged care and ageing. By making time and space in our families for our elderly people, we enrich our lives and theirs, finding joy and making every moment count. 

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx 

About the speaker 

Dr Andrew Miller is an anaesthetist, columnist, former President of the Australian Medical Association (WA), and former President and Federal Treasurer of the Australian Society of Anaesthetists. 

Having attended school and university in Perth, Andrew has practiced as a specialist anaesthetist across all our major hospitals over the past twenty years.  

Dr Miller was ‘WA’s Doctor’ during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. He fronted the media regularly regarding safety measures and health information.  

At the same time, he was a son learning the realities of caring for a loved one in the aged care system.