Reimagining Aging Speaker Series

The Reimagining Aging Speaker Series is an annual event offering public lectures to both the Brock and larger Niagara community about interesting topics within the field of aging and gerontology.

Caregiver and client watering flowers

The event is aimed at celebrating the achievements of current MAG students and practicum partners. We hope to grow this annual event to include older adults and those working within the field of gerontology, and contributing positively, either directly or indirectly, to improving the lives older adults.

Symbiotic Relationships: The Reciprocity in Partnerships

Recorded Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at 10 a.m. in Pond Inlet

The third instalment of the Reimagining Aging Speaker Series featured Brock University alumna Mahoganie Hines, Clinical Nurse Specialist on the Palliative Care Unit of St. Peter’s Hospital.

Mahoganie explored the concept of symbiotic relationships formed within Master of Applied Gerontology (MAG) practicum partnerships and the reciprocal nature that defines successful collaborations. She examined how MAG students and partnering organizations contribute unique strengths and resources, create mutually supportive environments where both sides thrive. She was joined by past and present MAG students speaking to their unique learning opportunities with her as their practicum supervisor.

After Mahoganie’s discussion, current MAG students presented posters summarizing a wide range of unique practicum experiences co-designed with local practicum partners. Each poster highlighted an applied, student-lead, evidence-informed, quality improvement project currently underway within a wide variety of local health and community support organizations.

Older Adults’ Stories of Isolation and Ageism during COVID-19

Recorded March 2023

COVID-19 is dramatically changing the lives of older adults in numerous and complex ways. Social and physical distancing guidelines put older adults at an increased risk for social isolation. Additionally, intergenerational tensions have intensified during the pandemic, and early research states the labeling of older adults (as a homogenous group) as “vulnerable” can lead to an increased risk of ageism in their communities. In this Reimagining Aging Series, Tia Rogers-Jarrell will share older adults’ stories of isolation and ageism during the COVID-19 pandemic. Karen Thompson from the Community Support Services of Niagara will also share their client-driven support services that help seniors in Niagara live independently in their own homes. The event is open to everyone. This event was a part of Brock University’s Master of Applied Gerontology Reimagining Aging Speaker Series and the Lifespan Institute’s Speaker Series. Speakers: Christina (Tia) Rogers-Jarrell – PhD Candidate, York University – https://throughtheireyesproject.com/ Karen Thompson – https://happyinmyhome.ca

Please note that this webinar will not recommend any specific resource and/or treatment options, nor is it intended to provide individual advice. Individuals should consult with their healthcare team/treatment provider for all healthcare recommendations and decisions.

Putting Life Into Years: Promising Practices for Reimagining Long-term Care.

Recorded May 11, 2022 – 12 to 1:30pm

Dr. Pat Armstrong discussed promising practices to reimagine long-term care, including lessons learned through the pandemic regarding what is needed for the flourishing and dignity of residents, staff, and families; how to bring joy to everyday life; and what we as citizens across ages can do to make an impact. This event is open to everyone.

Pat Armstrong is Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus at York University, Canada and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. Focusing on women, work and the health and social services, she has published such books as Wash, Wear and Care; Clothes and Laundry in Long-term Care; Critical to Care: The Invisible Women in Health Services; Wasting Away; The Undermining of Canadian Health Care as well as many book chapters, journal articles and reports intended for public audiences. She has been an expert witness before Tribunals and Commissions and led multiple research projects, including the 10-year “Reimagining Long-Term Residential Care: An International Study of Promising Practices” and “COVID-19, families and long-term residential care”.