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Henry was selected to receive the 2009 Distinguished Service to the Field of Psychogeriatrics Award for his work over many years to improve the mental health of older people around the world.

The board of directors of the International Psychogeriatric Association (IPA) says recipients of the award demonstrate inspiration, leadership, vision, ethics, innovation, organizational development and motivation in the discipline of psychogeriatrics.

"I was astonished and delighted to receive the award for Distinguished Service to the Field from the IPA. My work has not felt like service; on the contrary it has been very rewarding and most enjoyable," Henry said.

"It has been a privilege to advocate for older people, more so as I approach that category daily. Ageing, especially the ageing brain is the happening area in medicine: the imminent demographic tsunami, grateful patients and families, stimulating research, career opportunities and the chance to make a difference. "

Henry’s most recent work, the Smile Project, centres on utilising laughter as therapy in aged care nursing homes.

Henry will accept the award in Canada next month.

News@UNSW | Media & Communications Unit