As we look ahead to our second HOMeAGE training event taking place this April in Ancona, Italy, we take a moment to reflect on the valuable learnings and discussions from our inaugural training session in Galway, Ireland.
The first training event brought together researchers, policymakers, and community advocates to explore diverse perspectives on ageing in place, highlighting both theoretical and practical dimensions. The public day offered a series of insightful sessions, now available to watch back online.
Research Approaches in Ageing in Place
Chaired by Laura Christ (HOMeAGE Reference Group; Older Women’s Network, NL)
Prof. Frank Oswald (Goethe University, Germany) introduced key models and concepts from environmental gerontology, offering a deeper understanding of how place influences the ageing process.
Policy Perspectives and Agendas
Chaired by Kieran Walsh (University of Galway, Ireland)
Alana Officer (World Health Organization) shared international policy frameworks and agendas promoting demographic change and healthy ageing.
Dr. Tine Buffel (University of Manchester, UK) addressed spatial justice and the right to age in inclusive, supportive communities.
Critical Reflections on Research and Policy
Chaired by Patricia Conboy (International Panel of Policy and Research Experts)
Prof. Norah Keating (IAGG, IPPRE, Canada) emphasized the importance of place in shaping policy-relevant research.
Prof. Malcolm Cutchin (Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, US) explored critical issues in ageing in place research from a geographical gerontology perspective.
This first session in Galway set the stage for deeper dialogue, learning, and cross-national collaboration—principles that continue to guide our work as we prepare for Ancona.
Stay tuned for more updates from HOMeAGE, and don’t forget to catch up on the public sessions from Galway here.