Why did you choose to explore research at McMaster University?

I have always been interested in improving the quality of life of older adults. In my previous career as a choir director, I was interested in how singing could support health and community, which I explored in my work as a choir leader, and through research on the experience of well-being in older adult choristers. When I decided to return to school for speech-language pathology, I was very fortunate to complete my training at McMaster University.  

During my studies, I met my now supervisor, Dr. Ashwini Namasivayam-MacDonald, who was launching her new Aging Swallow Research Lab. During my studies, I was inspired by Dr. Namasivayam-MacDonald and became passionate about supporting people with swallowing difficulties. Eating and drinking are an important part of identity, culture, and community, and I knew I wanted to fuel my curiosities by pursuing a PhD to learn how to improve the health and well-being of older adults with swallowing difficulties. 

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

I feel it is essential to involve people with lived experience when conducting clinical research. My research is focused on helping people with dementia and swallowing difficulties who live in long-term care stay hydrated and healthy. As a clinical researcher, if I want the ideas and strategies that I discuss in my research to make a difference, I need to partner with the people who will be implementing and receiving the strategies. This means learning from and working with people with dementia, people with swallowing difficulties, family members, long-term care staff, and clinicians to understand their priorities.  

These partnerships will help to bridge the gap between research and practice and support long-term implementation to improve the health and well-being of people with dementia and swallowing difficulties. Patient-oriented research is hugely underrepresented in my field, and I feel very lucky to receive support and training in these areas from the Collaborative! 

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

My advice to new trainees is to stay curious and be comfortable with not having all the answers. If we continue to stay curious about the people we are hoping to support with our research, particularly their preferences and priorities, it will be sure to result in thoughtful and meaningful research.