McMaster University is one of the top 70 Universities in the world; and with optimal aging as one of our research priorities, McMaster has developed an important influence on the culture of aging research in Canada and internationally. McMaster’s dedication to collaborative research brings together researchers from all disciplines and Faculties, important stakeholders from our community, and students—our next generation of researchers—to develop practical solutions for our aging population. An Age-Friendly University, McMaster is rapidly advancing aging research, as well as educational and community initiatives intended to support older adults. Continual innovation sets McMaster apart and, as a result, we have developed the capacity to address the most pressing aging-related questions facing older adults, caregivers, health professionals and policy makers today. This impact has been made possible because of the vision and generosity of Suzanne Labarge. In a year dominated by the global COVID-19 pandemic, McMaster’s researchers have shown themselves to be innovative and adaptable in enhancing and improving the aging experience, even under extremely challenging circumstances. I invite you to read more about the impact McMaster is making in this year’s report.
In what has proven to be a challenging year for academic and research institutions across the globe, I am proud to be in a position to continue to champion the Labarge Centre for Mobility in Aging (LCMA), housed within the McMaster Institute for Research on Aging (MIRA). The Centre continues to support its vision with significant success, and has risen to the occasion to support its researchers, trainees, stakeholders and members of the older adult community despite the uncertainties of COVID-19. The fact that such a significant portion of our population is aging can be viewed as a human success story, but living longer also comes with its share of challenges. These challenges, including barriers to physical mobility and social and personal support systems, become even more important to address during a pandemic when older people are most vulnerable. MIRA and the LCMA have shown that they have the capacity to confront the difficulties older adults face in their daily lives and during the pandemic. McMaster continues to receive recognition as an international and innovative leader in aging research. Through the LCMA, we will continue leading the way with the translation of important research findings that will help older adults and their caregivers make the best evidence-based decisions for optimal health and well-being. I am pleased to support our shaping the future of aging research at McMaster. Enabled by the generous investments made by Suzanne Labarge, we will continue to chart an ambitious path for McMaster while adapting to a changing world.
Dr. David Farrar President and Vice-Chancellor
Dr. Susan Denburg Executive Vice-Dean and Associate Vice-President, Academic, Faculty of Health Sciences University Lead, Labarge Centre for Mobility in Aging and McMaster Institute for Research on Aging
2020 MIRA and Labarge Annual Report | Introduction
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