AgeCare funds Research Chair in Aging at Mount Royal
A new research chair in Mount Royal’s School of Nursing and Midwifery will expand on the work being done at Mount Royal’s Centre for Health and Innovation in Aging thanks to a $600,000 donation from AgeCare, a trusted provider of aging in place communities to seniors across Canada.
The AgeCare Research Chair in Aging will work with MRU’s existing Chair in Older Adult Health and will undertake research to understand the multifaceted aspects of aging and develop innovative solutions with technology to enhance the quality of life for older adults, as well as advocate, educate, and collaborate on issues involving aging and seniors care. This important work will take place through MRU and AgeCare.
“The work of this new chair will deepen our understanding of the health needs of older adults, allowing us to generate new knowledge and inform the care of elderly people in our community, something we will all benefit from eventually,” says Dr. Tim Rahilly, PhD, President and Vice-Chancellor of MRU. “The impact of this gift will not only be felt by MRU but the entire community and beyond.”
The Centre for Health and Innovation in Aging is a hub for aging adults, faculty, students, researchers, industry partners and care providers to promote health, independence and quality of life through four key areas: innovations in age technology, interdisciplinary research for healthy aging, collaboration and knowledge sharing and creating a social impact.
“This generous donation will enable us to advance research that prioritizes the needs of older adults, ensuring their voices are not only heard, but integrated into the development of solutions that enhance their quality of life. Together, we are committed to ensuring the experiences and needs of older individuals are at the forefront of our efforts, making a meaningful impact in their care and community,” says Jocelyn Rempel, RN, Director of the Centre for Health and Innovation in Aging and Chair in Older Adult Health.
AgeCare currently operates 54 continuing care communities across Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario. They offer high-quality, resident-centred care, programs, amenities and services through their long-term care, retirement living, supportive living, memory care, seniors’ mental health, hospice and adult day programs.
AgeCare’s Chief Executive Officer Salimah Walji-Shivji recognizes the important connection postsecondary plays in senior care. “This donation represents our commitment to continuous learning, innovative thinking, and the advancement of care and services for our aging population. The work resulting from this partnership will not only benefit those we serve within AgeCare communities but support the entire sector across Canada,” she says.
Dr. Joseph Osuji, PhD, Director of the School of Nursing and Midwifery also recognizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. “With the generous donation from AgeCare and the establishment of this research chair, we are poised to undertake pioneering and groundbreaking initiatives that address the complex needs of our aging population. This work will be instrumental in bridging the gap between academia and practice, ensuring that our research effectively informs and enhances the quality of life, well-being, independence, and dignity of older adults.”