Mac prof on national seniors council

A McMaster University professor has been appointed to a national body that advises the federal government on matters related to seniors’ health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Dr. Parminder Raina, a professor in the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact specializes in the epidemiology of aging.

He called the three-year post to the National Seniors Council “a privilege and an honour to be on a committee that actually helps inform policy at the federal level in the area of aging population and seniors specifically.

“One of the things we do pride (ourselves) on, is that we want this research to make a difference in the lives of the people. And one of the important ways to do that is through informing policy that is based on evidence,” he said of the research conducted at McMaster.

Raina’s goal is for the policy impact to be felt at the local level, where Mac has committed to be an “age-friendly university,” which advocates hope will make the city more inclusive.

“We are very keen to make sure that Hamilton becomes a city that is very friendly to seniors,” he said. “One of the crises, not only in Hamilton, but across the country and across the world, is the social isolation among seniors.

“I think there is a need for policies and directions to be set by the federal government in that area.”

Friday’s announcement came along with three other new members. As well, Dr. Suzanne Dupuis-Blanchard was named chair of the advisory group.