On 14 August, the two National Science Challenges hosted at the University of Otago – Ageing Well and Healthier Lives – collaborated for the final time in a Legacy event for the university community.
The Legacy Event featured different perspectives of the mahi of Ageing Well and Healthier Lives: from directors, to Chairs, and to the research teams themselves.
We gathered at Tūhura Otago Museum to hear presentations from featured speakers, as well as representatives from some of the research programmes funded by the two Challenges.
On behalf of Ageing Well, our lead speakers were Dr Will Edwards (Chair), and our two Co-Directors, Associate Professor Diane Ruwhiu and Associate Professor Tracy Perry.
We gathered at Tūhura Otago Museum to hear presentations from featured speakers, as well as representatives from some of the research programmes funded by the two Challenges
Katrina Bryant, principal investigator of the Ageing Well-funded Taurite Tū programmme, spoke about the project. As part of her presentation, she turned the floor over to a group of kaumātua who participate in the Taurite Tū programme.
It was incredibly moving to hear first-hand the impact the kaupapa Māori falls prevention and wellness programme has had on participants. One kaumātua declared that prior to starting the programme, his mobility was limited and he walked with a stick. He proudly stood tall – without any mobility aid – and shared the positive impacts Taurite Tū has had on his life.
Ageing Well Director, Professor David Baxter said, “Hearing the personal stories of transformation and improved wellbeing was exactly what we had hoped for when we made the call to fund innovative, community-based mahi like Taurite Tū.”
“We are proud of the way in which Ageing Well has done science differently, with our focus on addressing inequity and community-centred research. We have shown that making a positive impact for kaumātua around the motu can be achieved,” he added.
Hearing the personal stories of transformation and improved wellbeing was exactly what we had hoped for when we made the call to fund innovative, community-based mahi like Taurite Tū.”
At the event, we were fortunate to have in attendance the new Vice Chancellor of the University of Otago, Grant Robertson, senior university leaders, as well as the Governance Groups of both Challenges, researchers, and key personnel.
On behalf of Ageing Well, we would like to say an heartfelt ngā mihi nui to the University for hosting our organisation for the last decade. It has been a pleasure to paddle our waka alongside the University and its community.
The Ageing Well team
Many thanks must go to:
The combined teams of Ageing Well and Healthier Lives
For those unable to make the event, we have a video of the event to view.
Watch the Ageing Well portion of the Legacy Event.
Alternatively, you can watch the full presentation.
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