Renewed funding to support seniors, caregivers

TORONTO – AGE-WELL NCE Inc. (Aging Gracefully across Environments using Technology to Support Wellness, Engagement and Long Life) had its funding renewed through the federal Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE) program to the end of fiscal year 2022-2023.

AGE-WELL will receive $21.9 million over three years – a significant investment that will help Canada respond to the needs and challenges of an aging population through technology-based solutions that enable older adults to maintain their independence, health and quality of life, and support their caregivers.

“Technology has a significant role to play in supporting older adults and caregivers in the current challenging times related to COVID-19 and in the future,” said Dr. Alex Mihailidis (pictured), scientific co-director and CEO of AGE-WELL, Canada’s Technology and Aging Network. “This vital funding from the Government of Canada will allow AGE-WELL to accelerate the delivery of technology-based solutions that support older Canadians and caregivers, and to continue building a thriving AgeTech sector in Canada.”

In five short years, the pan-Canadian AGE-WELL network has grown from 80 partners to almost 400 industry, government and non-profit partners. AGE-WELL has 42 member universities and research centres across Canada. Over 4,700 older adults and caregivers are involved to ensure that products are practical and useful.

To date, AGE-WELL has supported 126 research teams at work on more than 100 technologies, services, policies and practices. From smart-home sensors to remote therapies and communication systems, the goal is to increase safety and security, support independent living, and enhance social participation.

AGE-WELL is transforming the culture of research in the field of technology and aging. The “AGE-WELL way” of doing research brings together different disciplines to solve real-world problems, and focuses on the co-creation of technologies with older adults and caregivers. AGE-WELL teams also apply themselves to privacy, ethical and regulatory issues.

In its second phase, AGE-WELL will continue to fund strong, solution-driven science and will drive innovation across eight Challenge Areas designed to “move the dial” when it comes to supporting older adults and caregivers in Canada – and achieving social and economic impact. AGE-WELL will place an even greater focus on innovative startups. It currently supports 36 Canadian startups that are commercializing products, generating jobs and creating wealth. AGE-WELL’s unique training program, which includes more than 750 trainees, will continue to prepare the next generation of leaders in the sector.

“The next phase of AGE-WELL represents a singular opportunity to continue the growth of Canada’s leadership in technology and aging,” said Dr. Mihailidis. “AGE-WELL has succeeded in bringing everyone together to address fragmentation in the AgeTech sector. The renewal funding will allow us to drive the sector forward so that everyone is pulling in the same direction, ensuring the greatest benefits possible for Canadians.”

About AGE-WELL
AGE-WELL NCE Inc. is Canada’s Technology and Aging Network. The pan-Canadian network brings together researchers, older adults, caregivers, partner organizations and future leaders to accelerate the delivery of technology-based solutions that make a meaningful difference in the lives of Canadians. AGE-WELL is funded through the federal Networks of Centres of Excellence program. For more information, visit www.agewell-nce.ca.