Until recently, Michelle was the primary carer of her mother, throughout both her home and residential aged care experience. Michelle has advocated for her Mum and other residents within her mother’s residential care facility, as well as for carers of people who have dementia and cognitive decline. She is extensively involved with Carers WA as a Carers Representative and has served as the voice for carers on several health and research committees. She is currently a member of the National Older Persons Reference Group and is largely involved in having input into the New Aged Care Act.  Michelle’s is interested in how supporting people make their own decisions improves their quality of life, and she is a strong believer that little changes can make a big difference and that it is our social and ethical duty to better.