AC launches first clinical research study
September 19, 2017
"I want to acknowledge that this study is making history here at Algonquin College, where this marks our very first clinical research study and our acceptance into the AGE-WELL Network of Centres of Excellence," said President Cheryl Jensen. "I want to thank everyone on our Algonquin team who has played a role in making this happen — employees, students and everyone who has worked behind the scenes at the College to make this incredibly valuable project and partnership happen."
The College worked with the University of Alberta, Carleton University, the Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre, and the Bruyère Research Institute to coordinate the 12-month study. The results will help researchers design and deliver integrated assessment systems to monitor movement and brain health to support early identification of cognitive decline, including dementia.
And the timing could not have been more appropriate.
"What is also important to note about hosting the event today is that this Thursday is World Alzheimer's Day, the day on which Alzheimer's organizations around the world concentrate their efforts on raising awareness about Alzheimer's and dementia, so it is fitting we launch our study this week," said Barb Foulds, Algonquin's Dean of the Faculty of Health, Public Safety and Community Studies.
The study's clinical research lead, Dr. Frank Knoefel of the Bruyère Research Institute, was also on hand to explain how the study began and its importance.
"It really is an exciting time to be working in the area of aging in the Ottawa area," he said, explaining that Algonquin had provided the ideal site for the study with its location, technology and a client group at the Garbarino Girard Centre.
The study is also receiving a lot of media attention. You can hear a story about it on CBC's Ottawa Morning here. Watch for more coverage in the days ahead.