October 2024 Community of Interest Highlights
We had two opportunities presented to the group at the October CI.
Professor Jonathan Parker, from Gower College in Wales, shared information about a collaborative project he is working on with David Neumann, professor at Humber Polytechnic.
The project focuses on utilizing spatial technology to support individuals living with dementia and has other potential applications as well. The technology can also support individuals who may not be able to access outdoor and other spaces for various reasons (e.g. mobility impairment).
This technology can also augment support therapeutic approaches such as nostalgia (reminiscence) therapy and may benefit individuals in settings such as palliative care.
It allows individuals to visit places virtually and experience things they otherwise be able to access.
The research team is actively working on the ethical implications of using this technology. Discussions are underway about how VR can be used ethically to ensure safety and appropriate use.
VR may help visualize positive imagery, contributing to emotional well-being.
The effectiveness of VR for individuals with cognitive dementia is still under investigation, with ongoing studies aiming to measure impact.
Individuals participating in the CI were offered an opportunity to provide further feedback about their research to David and Jonathan when Jonathan visits Humber the week of October 21st.
In addition to Jonathan’s presentation, Glen Zeidler, a regular ACER CI participant shared a proposal that he is considering; again, participants were invited to provide feedback to Glen.
The organization Glen works for is called Connecting Streams and is part of Power to Change. It is the intention at Connecting Streams to energize the churches to be more focused on ministry to the vulnerable sector and in Glen’s case, older adults.
Looking to the future, they are beginning to explore how the churches can minister to those who are aging in place, to be supportive to those who are lonely and in need of help. Ultimately, they would like to implement a program that would be replicable and that could be rolled out across Canada. The churches would be encouraged to raise volunteers who could then help to support older adults in their homes.
CI participants had excellent suggestions about individuals and groups with whom Glen might want to connect.
As happens almost every month, we found ourselves wishing we had more time! A reminder that one way to extend our time together is through the ACER LinkedIn group.
Please note:
The next Community of Interest (CI) gathering is scheduled for Thursday, November 21, 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.