AGE-WELL Challenge Areas
What’s a Challenge Area?
A Challenge Area is an important but difficult and complex problem area (often known as a “wicked problem”) that demands innovation and deployment of real-world solutions. A challenge in this context is NOT just about problems, it may be about economic opportunities and making a positive contribution to Canadian society and government policy. A Challenge Area goes beyond research questions or priorities.
AGE-WELL Challenge Areas [infographic pdf]:
- Supportive Homes & Communities
- Health Care & Health Service Delivery
- Autonomy & Independence
- Cognitive Health & Dementia
- Mobility & Transportation
- Healthy Lifestyles & Wellness
- Staying Connected
- Financial Wellness & Employment
Focusing primarily on these eight Challenge Areas will enable AGE-WELL to “move the dial” when it comes to supporting older adults and caregivers in Canada―and achieving social and economic impact. These Challenge Areas set the agenda for the future of technology and aging in Canada.
Download the Future of Technology and Aging Research in Canada booklet (English).
Download the Future of Technology and Aging Research in Canada booklet (French).
Background
The Challenge Areas were identified in 2018, when we embarked on a comprehensive review of policy priorities across governments in Canada and internationally, relating to seniors. These priorities were validated with research, government, non-profit and industry stakeholders, and with older adults and caregivers.
From hundreds of priorities, a shortlist of 18 Challenge Areas was presented at public consultations across Canada. AGE-WELL also conducted a public survey. With feedback from 1,000 stakeholders, a final set of eight Challenge Areas was developed and announced at the Canadian Science Policy Conference on November 7, 2018.