
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