At the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging (RIA), our mission has always been to enhance the quality of life and care for older adults through partnerships in research, education, and practice. We don’t just conduct research in a lab; we connect it to the real world by addressing the most pressing challenges of an aging population.
As our work and the needs of older adults evolve, we are focusing our efforts on three key impact areas to better support the experience of growing older in Canada.
Why Impact Areas?
Our work spans research, education, and community collaboration. The three impact areas help bring them all together to tell our story, our why, and our impact. These impact areas were shaped through a collaborative process with our staff, researchers, and community and academic partners. The result is three highly focused areas that reflect who we are and where we’re going.
Aging is about more than just “getting by”—it’s about thriving. This impact area focuses on creating evidence-based programs and resources that help older adults and their care partners live their best lives. We do this by working with older adults, healthcare professionals, and community providers to understand and address the unique needs and challenges of aging.
Learn more about this impact area and see recent examples of this work by visiting: the-ria.ca/helping-older-adults-live-well/
Proper training equips staff with the skills and confidence to deliver high-quality care, better support older adults’ independence, and reduce staff burnout and turnover. We equip healthcare professionals, students, and other care partners with the latest knowledge and training through evidence-based educational programs and resources that help current and future care professionals grow, develop, and remain in roles that support older adults.
Learn more about this impact area and see recent examples of this work by visiting: the-ria.ca/strengthening-the-workforce-who-support-older-adults/
Perhaps our most ambitious goal is to change the perceptions of aging. People are living longer, healthier, and more engaged lives, yet many older adults continue to face negative assumptions around frailty, forgetfulness, and resistance to new technology.
We are working to transform the culture of aging by eliminating stigma and inspiring change through research-informed programs to help older adults live with dignity and purpose.
Learn more about this impact area and see recent examples of this work by visiting: the-ria.ca/changing-the-perceptions-of-aging/
Looking ahead
These impact areas are not just categories; they’re the roadmap for a world where research drives innovation and redefines aging. Whether you are a community member, an older adult, a care partner, or a researcher, you are reflected in this. We are excited to move forward with a strong focus, clearer vision, and commitment to listening, learning, and working together to advance research and redefine aging.
Explore the-ria.ca to learn more about our work, our resources, and how to get involved.