May 2026 Community of Interest Highlights
The Humber Aging in Community Education & Research (ACER) Community of Interest is a growing platform that facilitates the exchange of emerging trends, knowledge sharing, and the exploration of research opportunities.
Highlights from the ACER Innovation and Impact Series Session on Proactive Planning for Aging in the Community
Our recent session featured Sue Lantz, who shared valuable insights on the importance of proactive and holistic planning for aging in the community. The discussion explored how individuals can take a forward-looking approach to later life by planning early, understanding available support, and using digital tools to navigate aging with confidence and independence.
The session introduced an innovative digital concept developed through collaboration with Humber Polytechnic students and research leads to an interactive, user-driven platform designed to help older adults and caregivers plan for future needs, explore resources, and make informed decisions about aging in place.
The session explored proactive aging planning through five key areas: health and wellness, housing and living arrangements, social connections and support systems, legal and future planning, and finances and resources.
The following key points were shared in the presentation:
Aging in the community requires proactive and forward-looking planning rather than reactive decision-making.
Digital tools and interactive platforms can help older adults and caregivers better navigate aging-related planning and resources.
The project explored an inclusive, user-driven design approach to support healthy aging and independent living.
The discussion highlighted the importance of culturally responsive support, especially for newcomers, marginalized communities, and solo agers.
Accessibility, digital inclusion, and equitable access to services remain key priorities for future development.
The session emphasized the importance of designing tools and resources that are inclusive, accessible, and adaptable to diverse lived experiences.
We thank everyone who joined the discussion and contributed thoughtful questions and perspectives.
Note:
The next Community of Interest (CI) gathering is scheduled for Thursday, June 18, 2026, 12:00 PM - 1:00 We invite all individuals interested in participating in this important dialogue. Whether you are a researcher, practitioner, student, or are committed to improving the quality of life for older adults in our communities, your insights and experiences are highly valued. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of older adults and the communities that support them.