The goal of the SHIH technology team is to support the implementation of innovations recommended by experts and supported by rigorous evaluation in order to assist seniors to maintain their health and independence.  In turn, this will ultimately reduce the burden on public systems through efficiency gains.

We continue to work actively with the SAM³ team, a collaboration between the Bruyère Research Institute and Carleton University in partnership with the AGE-WELL Network Centres of Excellence, and with research experts from Carleton University Department of Sociology, and School of Social Work.  The focus of the research is to demonstrate how technology can assist seniors to age well in-place.  For an overview of some of the technologies being developed in Canada consult AGE-WELL.

In the spring of 2025, Dr. Raymond Wallace, an engineer at Carleton who is central to the Age-WellSAM³ effort, spoke at the speaker series at Abbotsford House on the technology being brought to the market. In this presentation, many of the emerging technologies are outlined.

As well, we are represented on the Experts by Experience Advisory Panel of the National Research Council Aging in Place Challenge program, and the Enabling Aging in Place Steering Committee of HealthCare Excellence Canada.

Our 2024 involvement with the Carleton/Bruyere teams included participating in, and informing volunteers of, opportunities to beta test new technologies (e.g. giving feedback on a ride sharing app, on an app to support individuals with mild cognitive impairment and their caregivers, on research protocol, and providing an assessment of sensor systems to support aging in place and independence).  

We partnered with the Carleton University School of Social Work to submit an application to the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada to fund a research project entitled Smartphone Health Apps, Social Networks, and Health Behavioral Change among Aging Adults.  Although we were not successful, we continue to look for funding opportunities with our partners.

If you are interested in participating in trial studies, please email us at seniorshealthinnovationshub@gmail.com. We will add you to our “technology” email list and notify you of any testing opportunities.

As well, the SHIH created a Guide to Healthy Aging and there’s a detailed section on the various ways Technology benefits us as we age.  Please take the time to review and share with others.

A recent Globe and Mail article highlights some interesting findings about the role that technology can play to help you age in place.