November 2024 Community of Interest Highlights

The Aging in Community Education & Research (ACER) Community of Interest is a growing platform that facilitates the exchange of emerging trends, knowledge sharing, and the exploration of research opportunities. Designed to foster connections in an informal and collaborative setting, it brings together organizations, faculty, researchers, and students, enabling them to engage and collaborate effectively.

The highlights from our recent CI gathering on Thursday, November 14th, 2024, are as follows:

Jeremy Staples, Research Specialist, Office of Research and Innovation, Humber Polytechnic talks about his upcoming three-year research project. The project focuses on two key areas:

1. Multigenerational Workforce: Addressing dynamics and challenges of workplaces with diverse age groups.

2. Older Entrepreneurs: Encouraging and supporting entrepreneurship among older adults.

The participants shared their perspectives and ideas including:

Emphasizing the importance of developing strong relationships with various organizations to support aging-related initiatives.

Highlighting the need to embrace older adults, especially as Canada adjusts immigration rules and policies to address labor shortages and demographic shifts.

Explaining the importance of exploring strategies to make cities more inclusive and supportive of aging populations.

Discussing the Impact of AI on Older Adults including the rise of AI-generated content, its implications for older adults, and strategies to engage and support older adults in adapting to AI-driven changes.

Examining the needs and working styles of the younger generation in the new world of work. Some of the top needs are flexibility in work schedules and locations, opportunities for engagement and collaboration, and a sense of purpose and meaningful work.

Discussing the concept of "Cognitive Warfare," focusing on its relevance and potential impact on older adults and the workforce.

Please note:

The next Community of Interest (CI) gathering is scheduled for Thursday, December 19, 2024, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM. We invite all individuals interested in participating in this important dialogue. Whether you are a researcher, practitioner, student, or committed to improving the quality of life for older adults in our communities, your insights and experiences are highly valued. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of older adults and the communities that support them.