Mobility, Aging and Participation (MAP)
The Mobility, Aging and Participation Research Group is a multi-disciplinary group of researchers whose purpose is to conduct research in the area of aging, health and participation within our communities.
Our research group focuses on issues concerning older adults' physical functioning and activity in every day living in a variety of environments including community, long-term and institutional living situations.
The goals of the Mobility, Aging and Participation Research Group include:
- Multi disciplinary, collaborative research initiatives using a variety of methodologies
- Generation of new knowledge in aging
- Completion of research that impacts the participation and quality of life of seniors
- Partnerships with consumers and students
- Dissemination of research findings into practice
Current Projects
Group members are currently engaged in a number of research projects relevant to the goals of the Mobility, Aging and Participation research group. As well, the group is currently conducting two studies.
- Assessment of Functional Status in Community Dwelling Older Adults: A pilot study
The purpose of this pilot study is to explore the changes in function in an older community-dwelling population over a 3 year period. Healthy older adults are being recruited to participate. Participants attend a functional assessment laboratory at McMaster University once a year over a three year period. They fill in questionnaires related to demographics, clinical and functional information. They also are asked to perform a variety of tasks that assess strength, mobility and physical function. Participants receive the assessment information and are given recommendations related to optimizing their function.
- The Physical Environment as a Risk Factor for Falls in Older Adults: A Research Overview and Meta-Analysis
The purpose of this project is to review the quality of the evidence and summarize the best evidence about the physical environment as a risk factor for falls in older adults. The research questions are: Is the physical environment a risk factor for falls in older adults? Which aspects of the environment are important? What is the magnitude of the associated risks?
Research Products and Summaries
An article summarizing the formation of the group is available:
Wilkins, S., Finch, E., Letts, L., Martin, K., Moreland, J., Richardson , J., & Wishart, L. (2002). Development of interprofessional clinical research collaboration in gerontology. Gerontology and Geriatrics Education, 22(3), 93-106.
Collaborators
Associated Lab
Functional Assessment Lab
Graduate Student Opportunities
Members of MAP are committed to supporting the work of graduate students interested in research in aging. Contact individual faculty members to discuss possible graduate student opportunities. |