Seeing the big picture one piece at a time

Here is a look at the work of 13 U of S researchers in schools and colleges across campus, who were highlighted in the recent report by the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation entitled Impacting Seniors’ Health – The Value of Aging-Related Research in Saskatchewan:

Sylvia Abonyi, associate professor, medicine: Examining the role of culture in population health, including respiratory illnesses like tuberculosis, as well as diabetes, aging and food security.

Dr. Jenny Basran, associate professor, medicine: The head of geriatric medicine at the U of S is working with engineering and computer science colleagues to develop a falls detection system for older adults.

Larry Brawley, Canada Research Chair, kinesiology: Examining a novel behaviour change intervention model that helps older adults self-manage exercise and maintain gains in health and function after intervention completion.

Phil Chilibeck, professor, kinesiology: Focusing on using novel nutritional supplements in conjunction with exercise programs, in order to improve bone health in older adults.

Jon Farthing (BSKI’99, MSc’02, PhD’06), associate professor, kinesiology: Studying rehabilitation techniques for fractures, stroke and other neurological impairment affecting one side of the body, by training the opposite side.

Nancy Gyurcsik, professor, kinesiology: Examining psychological factors motivating older adults with arthritis to exercise, as a prevention and therapy tool.

Saija Kontulainen, professor, kinesiology: Developing strategies to prevent bone deterioration diseases such as osteoporosis, particularly for post-menopausal women who are prone to fractures.

Joel Lanovaz (BE’90, PGD’92, MSc’97), associate professor, kinesiology: Working in collaboration with the School of Physical Therapy to investigate frailty and fall-related injuries and effective prevention techniques.

Debra Morgan (BSN’86, MN’90, PhD’96), professor, medicine: Dedicated to improving rural and remote health service delivery, particularly for individuals with dementia, and their caregivers.

Darrell Mousseau, professor, medicine: Studying causes of Alzheimer’s disease and its connection to depression, in order to improve early diagnosis and treatment options prior to full onset of symptoms.

Alison Oates, assistant professor, kinesiology: Researching sensory information to improve balance while walking for older adults, to try to help prevent fall-related injuries.

Sarah Oosman (BSc’95, BSPT’98, PhD’12), assistant professor, medicine: Exploring community-based health intervention research and programs in partnership with First Nations and Métis communities.

Corey Tomczak, assistant professor, kinesiology: Focusing on preventing heart failure following a heart attack, by employing earlier referrals and earlier initiations of cardiac rehabilitation programs.