Addressing Ageism in Research, Education and the Community. Centre on Aging, University of Calgary

Recently I had the pleasure of hearing a presentation at the CALL Café on "Reimagining Aging: How the University of Calgary is Building an Age-Friendly Future." I was impressed by the commitment of the presenters; Dr. Jayna Holroyd-Leduc, Scientific Director, Centre on Aging, and Dr. Chantelle Zimmer, Senior Manager, Centre on Aging. As I listened to their mission and accomplishments, I reflected on ageism in research as well as in healthcare that I encountered during my career. I also listened with interest to the interdisciplinary approach. An approach that can advance research and education to improve the health of older adults.

What is Ageism?

In a previous blog post, Ageism and Youthism, I discussed ageism: in brief: 

Ageism refers to stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination against or in favour of a particular age group.

Ageism remains the most tolerated form of social prejudice.

Ageism includes:

Although the word 'ageism' can refer to any age group, it is usually stereotyping individuals that are in the later years of life. In this post, when I refer to ageism, I am referring to people in an older age group.

On a personal note about language. Words are important. They can evoke powerful emotions. They can reveal blatant or hidden biases and prejudices. I have heard many discussions debating what to call individuals in the later years of life. For me, I take no offense to being called an 'older adult', a 'senior', or an 'elder'. Because I am all of the following: old, aging, elderly. I take offense only when the attitude or behaviour is driven by a bias that all of 'us' in this age group are alike. This assumes that we all want or need the same things. Stereotyping represents lazy thinking.

How Does Ageism Impact Society and Healthcare?

Ageism has a significant impact on individuals and society. In her presentation to the Calgary Chapter of AAG (Alberta Association on Gerontology), Dr. Jayna Holroyd-Leduc explored the Impact of Ageism on Canadian Society.

Here are the highlights of her presentation.

With the rapidly aging Canadian population, changes are needed now within society and the healthcare system, focused on:

With respect to education, specifically of physicians, Dr. Holroyd-Leduc shared some important facts. (summarized here).

Canada has a few excellent training programs (in Geriatrics) but may lack applicants. Medical students need more exposure to geriatrics and a better understanding of  geriatric medicine. Many get no exposure to geriatrics or learn anything about normal aging.

We published an article in CMAJ that showed that every medical school has a mandatory rotation in pediatrics even though many physicians will not provide healthcare to children, whereas almost all physicians will interact with older adults in their day-to-day practice.

Ageism in health care reflects ageism in society. And often health care gets a skewed perception of older adults because providers see only those with illness and frailty. This ignores the majority of seniors who are living independently and enjoying healthy aging.

Ageism affects health and healthcare. Systematic reviews have shown that ageism is associated with worse health outcomes across eleven domains. Some of these effects are due to lack of access to services while others are related to exclusion of older adults from research.

Personal Experiences of Ageism in Healthcare

This year marks 60 years since I entered the nursing profession. As a young nurse I expressed my interest in working with older adults. I was greeted with what I would now label as ageism. The common reaction was "Why?" With some people adding that I would be 'wasting my skills' but never saying what skills would be wasted. This was not very encouraging for sure.

Over the years I also saw ageism in healthcare management. At one point in my career, I found myself in a lively debate with a hospital administrator. This administrator said: "I understand that nurses need to be specialized to work in ICU. You don't need many skills to work with the elderly. The work is mainly intuitive." His comments were made early in our debate and I was actually encouraged because by the end of our conversation he said that he had no idea that geriatric nursing was so complex.

I noticed that ageism in healthcare providers and management was a reflection of ageism in society.

For many years I sought out opportunities to work with older adults in acute care and in the community. In a future post, I will talk about a wonderful part of my career when I joined a visionary team to create SARG (Southern Alberta Regional Geriatric Centre).

It was personally encouraging for me to listen to the presenters from the UCalgary Centre on Aging and to hear about their efforts to improve the health of seniors. These efforts include ‘helping inform better public policy related to seniors’ issues through coordinated research, teaching and learning, and community outreach efforts.'

Centre on Aging, University of Calgary

Since the late 19th century, the world’s population has been aging due to lower birth rates and longer life expectancy. In Canada, older adults made up just over 1 in 8 people at the start of the 21st century, a number that continues to grow. This shift brings both opportunities and challenges and has led many universities to develop programs focused on aging.

The University of Calgary's Centre on Aging was founded in 2011 through the generous financial support of the Brenda Stafford Foundation.  Its purpose is to serve as an interdisciplinary hub to advance research and education addressing the growing complexity of population aging. 

Dr. Jayna Holroyd-Leduc is the Scientific Director of the Centre on Aging and Dr. Chantelle Zimmer is the Senior Manager. 

Objectives include fostering academic innovation, expanding knowledge, strengthening workforce training, and sharing evidence to inform policies and practices that enhance the health and well-being of older adults.

Source: Presentation at CALL Cafe, January 19th, 2026. Used with permission. 

How the Centre Enhances Age Inclusivity at UCalgary and Beyond.

What is an Age-Friendly University?

The concept of an Age-Friendly University (AFU) began in 2012 when three universities collaborated to explore how higher education could better support older adults. This led to the development of a framework of 10 principles to "guide institutions in becoming more inclusive of older adults and more engaged in aging-related issues."

The AFU Global Network is a worldwide group of colleges and universities working to make policies, programs, practices, and environments in higher education settings more inclusive and accessible for older adults (age 50+).

The University of Calgary was designated an Age-Friendly University (AFU) in 2018.

"Becoming an age-friendly university isn't just a title, it's a commitment to shaping an institutional landscape where age is not a barrier to learning, working and thriving. We want to not only embrace older adults — a group traditionally underserved within post-secondary institutions — but celebrate the wealth of knowledge and experience that they bring to our campus community," Dr. Chantelle Zimmer PhD

The Centre leads the AFU initiative to create a more welcoming and supportive campus for people of all ages. The AFU action plan focuses on building a campus culture that values all generations. These efforts will result in UCalgary becoming a top choice for students of all ages and attracting and retaining talented faculty and staff at every stage of life.

How the Centre Advances Transdisciplinary Research

The Centre provides comprehensive research support that enables faculty members and students to tackle complex aging-related issues and connects academics with community members to ensure research reflects the needs of older adults and those who support them.

Here are some examples:

• Supports students and faculty throughout the research process, from applying for funding to sharing results.
• Collaborates with other academic groups to facilitate connections between faculty and students across disciplines and universities.
• Hosts events that bring together faculty, students, and community members to explore and discuss current research on aging.
• Leads special research projects that advance UCalgary and stakeholder priorities.

How the Centre Advances Education & Training

The Centre offers programs that enhance students' learning about aging beyond their coursework.

Co-hosts monthly seminars, in partnership with the Division of Geriatric Medicine, for students and faculty members on topics related to aging and older adults.

It provides training opportunities for students to build knowledge and skills in the field of aging.

Offers supervision and mentorship to students completing research assistantships, practicums, and internships.

It provides professional development opportunities for faculty members to strengthen leadership skills and expertise in aging.

Annually in March, the Centre promotes careers in aging to students as part of Careers in Aging Month.

For example, in 2024, the Centre hosted an interprofessional panel discussion about Careers in Aging with representatives from geriatric medicine, gerontology, nursing, social work, and community leadership.

The Centre is launching a UCalgary Student Chapter of the Gerontological  Society of America to further support student learning and career development in aging.

The University of Calgary has a Graduate Students' Association that represents graduate students and encourages the formation of student clubs with specific mandates. This includes student chapters of the Gerontological Society of America, which support students involved in aging-related research and education by providing networking opportunities and promoting professional development in gerontology.

How the Centre Engages with Community

The Centre emphasizes the importance of integrating the needs and voices of older adults and those who support them into research and education, and provides research and conceptual expertise in aging to inform key community initiatives.

Calgary has been an "Age-Friendly City" since 2015; the Centre represents the post-secondary sector on the steering committee. The Centre is currently leading a project to improve access to and navigation of information about local programs and services that support healthy aging for older adults, with the goal of developing a user-friendly tool to improve system navigation. It creates opportunities for community members and academics to connect through communications and events, ensuring that knowledge flows in both directions.

NOTE. In the spring of 2026, the Centre plans on forming a Community Advisory Committee with older adults, caregivers, and relevant sector professionals. If you are interested in participating, please sign up for the newsletter to hear about this and other activities. (See Resources)

How CALL (Calgary Association of Lifelong Learners) Addresses Ageism

CALL is a member-led, non-profit organization incorporated under the Societies Act of the Province of Alberta in February 2011. CALL’s mandate is to facilitate lifelong learning for residents of Calgary and area.

Although CALL’s mandate may not directly address ageism, its model of lifelong learning can counteract some of the stereotypes about older adults.

Programs led by members

When members agree to facilitate an interest group or study program, they are using knowledge and skills and that knowledge and those skills are appreciated by others. This counters the myth that older people do not contribute to society.

When members attend these programs, they meet others with similar interests and develop connections and friendships. This counters the myth that older people are isolated and lonely.

Volunteering

When members volunteer for any activity – such as being on the Board, or behind-the-scenes activities to run all the programs, or setting up for a presentation – they feel rewarded by contributing their skills. They can also learn new skills. For example, how to manage AV for a presentation; how to facilitate a group; or how to use social media to promote CALL. Obviously, all of these show that older people can and do continue to learn new things.

Counteract internalized ageism

Participation in CALL activities can also address internalized ageism. Internalized ageism refers to the negative way you talk to yourself based on cultural messages or personal experiences. It isn't a passing thought - it has a direct impact on health choices, mental health, relationships and shutting down one's pursuit of new opportunities. Author Deb Benfield described it as the "Quiet Saboteur"

Because 'seniors' are not a homogeneous group and can range in age from 65 to +90 years, this means CALL members are exposed to a diversity of opinions and experiences. And this can happen every time they gather for coffee at a CALL Café or meet together in an Interest Group or Study Program.

Author's Reflections

As an older adult, I am grateful that UCalgary has a Centre on Aging. I am grateful to Dr. Barrie Strafford for starting the Brenda Strafford Foundation and supporting this Centre, and many other important contributions in Geriatrics and Gerontological Nursing.

Why? I want age-informed research because that knowledge is the basis of good healthcare and support for older adults.

Why? I am supportive of activities to promote careers related to understanding aging.

Why? I value an AFU initiative for two reasons. First, the intergenerational activities and exposure are a powerful antidote to ageism. Second, this better prepares young students for the demographic realities of their world. Third, encouraging mature students to seek University education - whether for career advancement or change - capitalizes on valuable life experience and diverse perspectives.

Author

Maureen Osis retired from her career -- first as a Gerontological Nurse and then a Marriage/Family Therapist in private practice working with mid-life and older adults. Maureen has published numerous articles and books, related to her professions. She is a member of CALL because she is passionate about learning. She is a volunteer with CALL, doing social media and the primary author of the blog, because she likes to face new challenges.

Throughout her career Maureen worked with older adults in a variety of settings. Sometimes this was through direct service; other times it was through education of professionals and the public. In numerous presentations, in-service programs, courses and publications she promoted awareness of the factors that affect healthy aging and the essential principles of Geriatric Nursing and Gerontology. Of many career highlights, one that she was very grateful to receive was an Honorary Gerontology Certificate awarded in 1999 from MRC (now MRU). Another was the AARN (now CARNA) Heritage of Service Award 1995.

Guest Authors

JaynDr. Jayna Holroyd-Leduc

Centre on Aging Scientific Director

Jayna is the Scientific Director of the Centre on Aging, where she provides scholarly direction and leadership to further the Centre’s mission of improving the health and well-being of older adults. As an academic geriatrician, Professor, and Head of the Department of Medicine at the University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services (AHS) Calgary Zone, she brings extensive expertise in medical leadership and geriatric medicine to shape the Centre’s research and educational initiatives. She also holds the Brenda Strafford Foundation Chair in Geriatric Medicine.

Jayna has held several leadership roles, including Head of the Division of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Calgary and AHS Calgary Zone (2016-2020), Medical Director of the AHS Calgary Zone Specialized Geriatric Services (2016-2020), and Scientific Director of the AHS Seniors Health Strategic Clinical Network (2012-2015). She was also a leader within the Canadian Frailty NCE Network. These experiences have positioned her to strengthen the Centre as a hub for advancing aging-related research, education, and policy.

Her research interests include knowledge translation sciences to improve the care provided to older adults.

Dr. Chantelle Zimmer

Senior Manager Centre on Aging

Chantelle is the Senior Manager of the Centre on Aging, where she combines her scholarly expertise with strong business leadership. She holds a PhD from the University of Alberta and completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the University of Calgary. In addition, Chantelle is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and holds a Certified in Management (C.I.M.) designation from the Canadian Institute of Management.

With 15 years of experience in research, teaching, and consulting in the public sector, Chantelle plays a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of the Centre. She oversees its operations and resources, fosters collaboration, and catalyzes innovative academic initiatives focused on aging. Driven by a commitment to creating positive change, Chantelle is dedicated to building supportive and inclusive environments that improve the health and well-being of the aging population.

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Resources

Age-Friendly University Initiative

Centre on Aging

Centre on Aging Mailing List
Sign up to receive the Centre on Aging's electronic newsletters and announcements featuring University of Calgary aging-related content.

Centre on Aging Strategic Plan 2025-2028

Centre on Aging donation page

Gerontological Society of America
Careers in Aging

University of Calgary events

University of Calgary research

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The Brenda Strafford Foundation (BSF) 

The Brenda Strafford Foundation has made many contributions to enhancing the quality of care and senior living.

Here is a partial list of important contributions to research and Geriatrics. 

1987 - The Brenda Strafford Chair in Geriatric Medicine at the University of Calgary

1997 - The Brenda Strafford Chair in Alzheimer Research

2008-2013 - The Brenda Strafford Centre for Excellence in Gerontological Nursing

2011 - The Brenda Strafford Centre on Aging

Learn more about CALL

Check out the Interest Groups offered to CALL members.

Learn more about membership in CALL.

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info@calgarylifelonglearners.ca

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