Why did you choose to explore research at McMaster University?

I completed my MSW (Analysis of Social Policy) at the School of Social Work at McMaster University and felt it was the best match for my research interests for my PhD.

Why did you get involved in your specific area of research or academic program, and what interests you about it?

I have worked in various areas and have always been interested in structural inequality and improving the life chances of those with the most limited resources. In the course of my work, it has become clear to me that the aging experience of those most affected by inequality requires specific types of interventions. I returned to the academic sphere to explore research to address these sorts of issues based on my work experience.

What are your career aspirations or plans following completion of your current training?

I would like to continue my program of research in the areas of providing health and social care services that address the effects of structural inequality. This includes decision-making amidst incapacity by encouraging planning and support that is aligned with an individual’s wishes and what is important to them. Additionally, I’m interested in how those who are aging with cumulative disadvantage can be supported to have improved experiences in the later stages of life.

I also enjoy teaching students who are new to the social work field. I continue to have a longstanding interest in policy work and would like to find opportunities to continue my involvement in that area.

What excites you most about your research or what has been the most exciting moment in your (academic) career so far?

I have particularly enjoyed interacting with undergraduate students as part of a teaching team for various courses. I have learned a great deal from them about how perceptions and the field have changed since I was a direct service provider. I have also been quite surprised by and very much appreciate how open and interested community agencies have been in my research.

Why do you think patient-oriented research is important in the research you are involved in?

I have worked in most areas of health and social care from direct service to policy and administration and I feel very strongly that the individuals receiving services need to have a voice in how we develop, deliver, and evaluate policies and programs that affect their lives directly.

What do you find most challenging as a trainee/about your specific research area and how have you overcome these challenges?

While community agencies are generally very interested in participating in research, it can be challenging to coordinate these activities with them as there are internal processes and procedures we often need to navigate together.

How do you think your research can improve patient-oriented research in aging and health?

I think we need to continue to explore and develop practical methods to involve individuals with lived experience throughout the research process to ensure meaningful and accessible engagement. I hope to contribute to this by sharing my own experiences and findings with others in this field and to build the body of research in the area.

What experiences or advice would you like to share with prospective/new trainees?

I think it’s valuable to explore different research approaches to broaden the possibilities to partner with people in the community with lived experiences.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about getting involved in patient-oriented research in aging and health?

I think a pivotal element is enabling those with lived experiences of accessing and receiving health and social care to be engaged in a meaningful way. While this may require additional effort from researchers, it’s essential to find creative approaches and provide adequate levels of support to our research partners.

Tell me about someone who has influenced your decision to work in your specific area of research.

For me, it has been the insights shared by my clients over the years—both what has positively impacted them in terms of services and approaches, as well as what hasn’t.

What qualities do you consider important for success in your specific area of research?

I believe commitment and patience are important in the work I do.