Key Takeaways
- The "Connecting Ageing Research with the Community" session will be held on December 5 at the Hunter Centre in Dunedin
- The event will feature research presentations, panel sessions, and performances, showcasing the latest research on ageing and its effects
- Topics to be discussed include dementia care, injury risk prediction, technology for older adults, and the role of play and creativity in ageing
- The event is free and open to the public, with RSVPs requested by emailing [email protected]
- The event aims to share important research with the community and provide opportunities for older adults to engage with local groups and activities
Introduction to the Event
The latest research on ageing will be shared with the public at a special event next week, titled "Connecting Ageing Research with the Community". The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place on December 5 at the Hunter Centre in Dunedin, from 1:30pm to 4:45pm. The event is being presented by the Collaborations of Ageing Research Excellence (CARE) in conjunction with the NZ Association of Gerontology and Age Concern Otago. This event is a unique opportunity for the community to come together and learn about the latest research on ageing, and to engage with local groups and activities that support older adults.
Organizing the Event
The event is being co-organized by Paula O’Kane, associate professor in human resource management at the University of Otago, and Dr. Lara Vlietstra, senior lecturer in physical activity and health at the University of Otago. Assoc Prof O’Kane and Dr. Vlietstra saw an opportunity to share the research being presented at the NZ Association of Gerontology’s annual conference with the wider community. They invited the 130 researchers attending the conference to participate in the community event, and were pleased with the response. The event will feature a range of research presentations, panel sessions, and performances, showcasing the latest research on ageing and its effects.
Research Topics and Presentations
The research topics to be presented at the event are diverse and fascinating. They include empowering dementia carers with virtual assistants, AI-assisted injury risk prediction for older New Zealanders, and the role of qigong in supporting wellbeing. Other topics include ageing playfully, how older citizens engage in urban spaces through play, and the benefits of singing together in a neurological choir. The event will also feature performances by the Dunedin Star Singers and RASA School of Dance seniors dance crew, as well as a talk on a new mobility programme by Margaret Dando of Age Concern Otago. The presentations and performances will provide a unique insight into the latest research on ageing and its effects, and will showcase the many ways in which older adults can engage with their communities and stay active and healthy.
Community Engagement and Participation
The event is not just about presenting research, but also about engaging with the community and providing opportunities for older adults to participate in local activities. The event will feature panel sessions and question-and-answer sessions, allowing audience members to engage with the researchers and ask questions. The event will also showcase local community groups that offer opportunities and activities for older people to enjoy. This includes the Dunedin Star Singers and RASA School of Dance seniors dance crew, as well as Age Concern Otago’s new mobility programme. By providing these opportunities, the event aims to support older adults in staying active, engaged, and connected with their communities.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The "Connecting Ageing Research with the Community" event promises to be a fascinating and enjoyable afternoon, providing a unique opportunity for the community to come together and learn about the latest research on ageing. The event is free and open to the public, and RSVPs are requested by emailing [email protected]. By attending this event, individuals can learn about the latest research on ageing, engage with local community groups, and support older adults in staying active and healthy. The event is a valuable resource for anyone interested in ageing and its effects, and is not to be missed.