The LIFE Research Institute (LRI) is an action-oriented research hub that takes a comprehensive approach to aging by advancing knowledge and training on the physical, mental and social factors that impact quality of life throughout the life trajectory. In essence: Live long, live well and with choices. Working in close collaboration with our partners, such as ILC-Canada, the Institute draws on all faculties, on academics from other organizations, members of the private sector, policy makers, practitioners and members of civil society to answer questions in need of evidence from several sectors. We start from concrete questions that are important for health and well-being and help create teams to answer them. We work closely with academics, decision makers, clinics, the private sector and members of the community. This integrative approach will become a signature of the Institute. We invite potential partners to contact us with issues relevant to the vision and mission of the institute. In Canada, as in many western countries, there are currently more individuals over the age of 65 than individuals under the age of 15 and life expectancy is now the longest that any previous generation has seen. The size of this age group is expected to continue growing at least until 2056, with the group of older Canadians 85+ showing the greatest growth. Understanding the nature and impact of enablers be they genetic, physiological, cognitive, psychological, environmental and/or social or understanding how they influence changes and transitions throughout the life trajectory is of increasing societal importance to address the new demographic realities. Only through a multi-sectoral approach that includes academics from various disciplines, government agencies, the private sector and civil society will we be able to develop knowledge, innovate in practice and create evidence-based policies.
