Did you know that by 2024, over 20% of the Canadian population will be over 65? There are already more Canadians over 65 than under 14. Regardless of your major or education level, knowledge about how to communicate, empathize with and understand the priorities and interests of an aging population is important for a variety of careers and life experiences. After all, all of us are aging every day!
Enhancing your knowledge about research on aging and working with older adults will help prepare you for experiences you will encounter in your personal and professional life. It will provide you with opportunities to explore topics in aging that interest you outside the classroom. It will help you to better understand the diversity of the aging population and their experiences. It will also provide you with knowledge and skills to support optimal aging in your own community. Nine pillars of education in areas that will support you to learn about aging and working with older adults have been identified and included in this program. These pillars represent the broad opportunities and experiences that can support learners to further their learning in this field. These pillars include a mix of experiential learning opportunities and opportunities to build up your background knowledge and learn from experts in research on aging. In order to meet the criteria to receive MIRA Certificate for Research on Aging and Engagement with Older Adults, you must complete experiences within four of the nine pillars. At least one of these pillars must include in-person interactions directly with older adults.
To contact the macPAGE team with questions, comments, or to suggest learning experiences, please connect with us at macpage@mcmaster.ca, or click the “contact us” button located on the dashboard.