AGE-WELL creates AI & Aging Council

TORONTO – A new AI & Aging Council, convened by AGE-WELL, has been established to provide strategic guidance on the responsible development, use and governance of artificial intelligence for aging populations in Canada.

Drawing on expertise from industry, key sector groups, academia, care organizations, older adults and caregivers, the Council’s focus will include home and long-term care, alternate level of care, hospital-to-home transitions, aging in place and community supports, and wellness, safety and social connection. It will advise government, industry and organizations adopting AI-powered solutions.

“AI is advancing quickly across care and daily life, and many organizations are looking for guidance on how to apply it in ways that best support older adults,” said Bridgette Murphy (pictured), CEO of AGE-WELL, Canada’s technology and aging network. “The Council will play a crucial role in examining the risks and opportunities of AI, and addressing important issues such as consent, accountability and oversight to help ensure it is used safely, responsibly and effectively.”

Members of the AI & Aging Council include:

• Sherry Baker, Co-Chair, AGE-WELL Older Adult and Caregiver Advisory Committee (OACAC)
• Aleem Bhanji, Vice President, Market Leader, AlayaCare, Adjunct Faculty, University of Toronto IHPME
• Jennifer Campos, Canada Research Chair (II), Senior Scientist, Scientific Advisor, AGE-WELL, Associate Director – Academics, KIT
• Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network
• Michael Chrostowski, Chief Partnerships Officer, AGE-WELL
• Amy Coupal, CEO, Ontario Caregiver Organization
• Greg Heard, Vice President of Innovation and Technology, Shannex
• Maria Judd, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Programs, Healthcare Excellence Canada
• Shelagh Maloney, CEO, Digital Health Canada
• Shaun McCumber, Business Development Lead, Mustimuhw Information Solutions (MIS)
• Sandra McKay, Vice President of Research & Innovation, VHA Home HealthCare; University of Toronto IHMPE & Toronto Metropolitan University
• Bridgette Murphy, CEO, AGE-WELL
• Rita Orji, Canada Research Chair in Persuasive Technology and Professor, Dalhousie University
• Dr. Keir Peterson, Executive Medical Director, TELUS Health
• Jonathan Sachs, Director of Government Affairs for Canada, PointClickCare

“We’re grateful to Council members for bringing their expertise, research, and implementation and lived experience. Their work will guide the use of AI to benefit older adults and caregivers, inform evidence-based policy, and support governments and care organizations in the adoption of AI solutions,” said Ms. Murphy.