Labarge Centre for Mobility in Aging (LCMA)

The Labarge Centre for Mobility in Aging (LCMA) launched in 2016 in order to direct focus on initiatives that mitigate the risk and consequences of declining mobility with age. Built on the groundwork of the Labarge Foundation and the Labarge Optimal Aging Initiative, and the generosity of Suzanne Labarge, the LCMA aims to produce tangible outcomes that will improve the lives of older adults in Canada and around the world.

Research approach

The LCMA fosters multiple cross-Faculty approaches to mobility in aging, which includes (but is not limited to):

• Biological and physiological contributors

• Behavioural, cognitive and psychosocial influences

• Biomedical, clinical and technological innovations

• Availability of prevention, rehabilitation and management strategies for mobility challenges

• Environmental components, such as social, economic,policy and physical/structural factors

The LCMA's mechanisms used to conduct research, support community engagement and promote knowledge sharing include:

• Facilitating and funding major interdisciplinary research initiatives

• Establishing partnerships to leverage LCMA funds

• Building capacity by supporting students and trainees

• Hosting events and facilitating outreach to enableresearch collaboration across disciplines

The LCMA’s positioning within MIRA allows the Centre to gain many efficiencies through shared staff, space and governance structures. Together, the LCMA and MIRA are well-positioned to respond to opportunities and enhance the lives of today’s aging population.