Elaine Wiersma (Lakehead University)

Current Activity
My research focuses broadly on a number of areas related to aging. First, I am interested in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, quality of life issues in dementia, and issues around the preservation of self and personhood. Research in this area includes self-management of dementia, understanding issues of dementia in rural, northern communities, and using photos to explore the experiences of living with dementia. Second, I am interested in understanding the role of place in people’s experiences, particularly in rural and remote communities and in long-term care facilities. Some of my research in this area to date has focused on aging in rural northern communities, residents’ experiences of long-term care, staff’s experiences of long-term care, and palliative care in long-term care. Third, I am interested in research related to the social aspects of aging. Some of this research includes examining masculinity and aging.

• Centre for Education and Research on Aging and Health, Lakehead University 

Student Mentorship
Looking to supervise:

• Master’s students
• PhD students
• Older adults pursuing higher education