February 6, 2023

The Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging (RIA) and Centre for Family Medicine Family Health Team are thrilled to announce the renewal of Dr. Linda Lee as Schlegel Research Chair in Primary Care for Elders. Dr. Lee’s passion for enhancing the lives of people living with dementia has made her an essential part of the RIA since 2016. Dr. Lee has made a significant impact in the field of dementia care as a Care of the Elderly physician, director of the Centre for Family Medicine and KW Regional MINT Memory Clinics, and associate clinical professor at McMaster University Department of Family Medicine.

Her MINT Memory Clinic model provides early diagnosis and care through a multidisciplinary approach and has been adopted by over 100 locations across Canada. An evaluation showed the model reduced wait times by 50 per cent and cut significant costs for the Ontario healthcare system.

“With the renewal of Dr. Lee as Schlegel Research Chair in Primary Care for Elders, her groundbreaking work in dementia care will continue to contribute to the interdisciplinary research needed to make a difference in the quality of life of people living with dementia and their care partners. Dr. Lee’s work is a game-changer for access to earlier diagnosis and primary care supports,” said Tina Mah, executive director of the RIA.

Dr. Lee also contributed to the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging, the largest dementia research network in Canada. Dr. Lee will continue to expand the MINT Memory Clinic model to more family practices nationwide to improve care for those with dementia and their care partners.

Dr. Lee’s accomplishments have earned her several awards, including the Ontario Minister’s Medal, CIHR Institute of Aging Betty Havens Award, and the KW Oktoberfest Women of the Year Award. Dr. Lee’s appointment in partnership with the Centre for Family Medicine will continue until December 2024.