With the support of a 2023 CIHR Planning and Dissemination Grant, ARC-NL held two community events open to older adults and researchers across the province to determine research priorities and needs, identify common research interests, and form relationships to support project planning. Citizen engagement has been instrumental in the establishment of ARC- NL and in our ongoing mission to prioritize knowledge mobilization and engagement with older adults.

Virtual Event, September 25, 2024:

ARC-NL hosted a virtual event to hear from seniors and older adults to better understand their aging research priorities. The event activities consisted of conversations broadly themed on ARC-NL’s three Strategic Pillars: Biology of Aging, Lived Experiences of Aging, and Aging in Place. Participants shared their ideas about health and aging in the province and priorities for research on aging. Participants were enthusiastic and passionate about promoting wellness and healthy aging, drawing attention to issues and needs spanning topics related to health, disease, social isolation, infrastructure, mobility, transportation, and mental health.

In-Person Event, November 22-23, 2024:

ARC-NL hosted a 2-day in-person event to engage researchers, students and trainees, representatives from the healthcare system, patient and caregiver partners, and older adults. 35 attendees from all over the province gathered in Corner Brook, NL to take part in discussions around aging research priorities in the province, create research partnerships, and start planning research projects together.

Next Steps:

Researchers and students at ARC-NL are currently working to organize and analyze the abundant knowledge provided by attendees at both events to further develop areas of research focus to support future projects. Themes and research priorities identified thus far include: Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities, Working in Older Age, Sense of Loss and Social Isolation, Importance of Choice/Autonomy, Complex Mental Health Issues, Civic Engagement and Advocacy, Dementia, Environmental Impacts on Chronic Disease, and Aging in Place. Please visit our Membership page to sign up as an ARC-NL member for free and to join our email list to stay up to date!