Halifax-based geriatrician, academic, and founder Kenneth Rockwood has been awarded the 2021 Ryman Prize, which is worth NZ$250,000, or C$218,000, for his work on behalf of older adults.

The grant recognizes the Dalhousie professor’s more than 30 years of research, collaboration and practical clinical work for older adults living with frailty and dementia and his long-term campaign to battle ageism in healthcare. Among his roles, Rockwood is behind patient-centred research company Ardea Outcomes, which he founded as DementiaGuide in 2000.

Based in Halifax, Adrea takes a two-pronged approach to boosting healthcare: the group gives patients a voice and allows pharmaceutical companies to better understand their clinical trial data. 

Rockwood said the pandemic has meant the health of older people was more important than ever.

“This is a fantastic recognition and the timing could not be better,” he said in a statement. “It will give momentum and recognition to do a whole lot more research and work for a greater good.’’

The annual Ryman Prize recognizes the best work carried out anywhere in the world to enhance quality of life for older people.

Rockwood was recognized for a unique contribution to the understanding of ageing, Ryman Prize Director David King said.

“Professor Rockwood is a truly outstanding clinician and academic who has spent many decades combining his practical experience with a research basis to try and truly understand the causes of ageing," he said. "His Clinical Frailty Scale is used internationally, and he has made a massive contribution to scientific literature with hundreds of peer reviewed articles and contributions in the world’s leading medical research journals.

“One of his greatest contributions has been to combat ageism. His work has helped debunk common misconceptions that complex problems faced by older people – such as delirium, cognitive issues and frailty – were part of normal decline and that treatment options were limited."

King continued: “His other great contribution has been as a teacher and a clinical leader, inspiring talented specialists to join the field. As a result of his inspiration the work of a whole new generation of Ken Rockwoods is likely to benefit older people around the world in the years to come."

The Ryman Prize has been awarded seven times and the winner is normally presented with the medal in person, but the pandemic prevented Rockwood from travelling to New Zealand.