About the CCAA

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The CCAA is a unique, national research and education centre within the Faculty of Health Sciences at Western. It promotes physical activity and well-being for older adults through a combination of basic and applied research, education, and community-based exercise programs. Its education and leadership training programs instruct thousands of individuals across Canada in standard, evidence-based practices to enhance the functional fitness of older adults at every level of mobility. Established in 1989, the CCAA is Western’s longest-running research centre.

Mission

To develop, encourage and promote the benefits of a physically active, healthy lifestyle for Canadian adults and older adults. These will be accomplished through collaborative research initiatives, effective and accessible knowledge translation activities and implementing practical application opportunities all designed to enhance the health and well-being of adults and older adults.

Vision

To be acknowledged leaders in the development and implementation of innovative, research-informed programs that advance engagement in, decision-making for and promoting an active, healthy lifestyle for adults and older adults

Research

Research at the CCAA includes a wide spectrum of basic and applied high-quality, innovative studies using a range of investigative designs and quantitative and qualitative methods. The emphasis of research is on activity, health, well-being and aging processes among older adults often linked to optimizing their inter- and independence. Knowledge mobilization, translation and exchange also are key theme areas of research frequently undertaken collaboratively by CCAA Research Associates, other researchers, graduate students and Community Partners at local, regional, provincial, national and international levels.

Education & Leadership

The CCAA provides evidence-based, active aging education for healthcare professionals, fitness leaders, volunteers and family members. CCAA programs promote accountable and effective functional mobility for older adults exercising in a variety of settings including community locations, long term care facilities, retirement living, adult day programs, and at home.

Internships offered by the CCAA help students develop abilities, skills, and knowledge about working with and supporting the functional fitness of older adults, gain valuable research and clinical experiences, and advance the CCAA’s mission and vision.

Exercise Programs

The CCAA has developed model exercise programs for older adults and provides leadership training to support the delivery of these exercise programs nationally, including at the CCAA’s outreach location in London, Ontario. Exercise program leaders are trained and certified in the Seniors' Fitness Instructor Course.