How we treat elderly people ties in to how we value them and the values we hold generally in our society, says Pamela Brett, geriatrics researcher in the Dept. of Family Practice.
A new position within the division of Community Geriatrics, Brett's job will be to develop a research mandate by co-ordinating, promoting and supporting research in geriatric health care.
A health-care researcher and consultant, she will form an advisory committee of family physicians, other health-care professionals, researchers and consumers to provide advice and feedback on the research program. Brett will also help doctors and other investigators develop funding proposals, implement research projects and share findings.
"There are often multiple conditions and factors challenging the health status of the elderly," says Brett. "The problems can be quite complex and involve family, friends and many care providers."
Brett says that with an aging population, there is a pressing need for information on health-care requirements and care delivery.
Brett most recently worked with a family practice research unit at the University of Western Ontario and is excited about the prospect of building a provincial program.
The geriatrics researcher position is made possible through support from the Royal Canadian Legion, Pacific Command. It is one of several positions funded by the Legion within the Family Practice Dept.
Individuals wanting to learn more about the geriatrics research program are invited to contact Brett at (604) 875-4111 (ext. 61438), or by e-mail to pbrett@unixg.ubc.ca.