Elaine Wiersma (Lakehead University)

Profile

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.

Areas of Interest

  • Age-friendly communities
  • Socialization and participation
  • Healthy aging
  • Dementia
  • Person-centred care
  • Rural aging

Approaches to Innovation

  • Capacity building and workforce development 
  • Community development 
  • Knowledge translation and exchange
  • Engaging those with lived experience 

Networks

  • 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