St.FX researchers awarded $3.5 million to support NS seniors
From the Springboard Content Lab
Springboard member St. Francis Xavier University received $3.5 million to conduct research that will help seniors in Northeastern Nova Scotia remain connected and active in their communities.
The funding comes through the federal government’s New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP), which funds community-based initiatives that encourage social inclusion of seniors in their communities.
“This funding will assist vulnerable seniors with disabilities, providing crucial programs and services customized to the specific needs of seniors living in northeastern Nova Scotia. The New Horizons for Seniors Program is most effective because it brings together organizations that have a deep understanding of the needs of seniors in the community to deliver supports that will increase social inclusion.”
– Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton–Canso–Antigonish
StFX will work collaboratively with organizations in northeastern Novia Scotia to increase the social inclusion of vulnerable seniors aged 55 and above with disabilities. The project will map and increase access to programs and services, encourage intergenerational connection and volunteer participation.
The project team includes StFX sociology professor and Canada Research Chair Health Equity and Social Justice Dr. Katie Aubrecht, Health professor Dr. Megan MacGillivray; community lead, Dr. Ann Bigelow who is the president of Keep Well Antigonish Society and StFX psychology professor emeritus; and program manager Bethany Theuerkauf, along with the Age Friendly StFX Working Group and community partners.
StFX’s collective impact project will receive up to $3,452,962 over five years under the pan-Canadian stream of the 2023–24 NHSP.
“This is a significant investment, and I am especially pleased to note that out of 20 projects that were successful, this project was approved for one of the highest total amounts awarded to any applicant across the country.”
StFX Dr. Erin Morton, Associate Vice-President, Research, Graduate, and Professional Studies
Dr. Morton noted the impact of this funding goes well beyond the individual projects. It will meaningfully enhance collaboration between the university and local community organizations, and it will create opportunities for researchers and students to engage in experiential learning, participatory, action-based research, and knowledge-sharing that flows in both directions.
Importantly, this investment also advances StFX’s commitment to becoming an age-friendly university and supporting age-friendly organizations in northern Nova Scotia.
“When seniors are active in the community, everybody benefits,” Dr. Bigelow agreed in her remarks.
Elaine MacLean, a participant in community organizations, noted how critical it is to remove barriers, which can range from financial to accessibility, so that everyone can participate. She says she is looking forward to all those in her age group having this opportunity.