Launched in 2017, the AGE-WELL National Innovation Hub APPTA is putting innovative aging and technology research into the hands of the people who can use it. We know that it takes on average 17 years for research to be translated into action. We aim to bridge that gap and mobilize aging and technology research in ways that can improve the lives of older Canadians.
APPTA is formed through a partnership between AGE-WELL, Canada’s aging & technology network, and Research New Brunswick (Research NB).
We Are Knowledge Brokers
Formally, knowledge translation is defined by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research as a dynamic and iterative process that includes the synthesis, dissemination, exchange, and ethically sound application of knowledge to improve health, provide more effective health services and products, and strengthen the health care system.
At APPTA, we serve as an intermediary between government policymakers, researchers, health care providers, older adults, and other organizations. We have established a wide network of collaborators who share the common goal of improving the lives of older Canadians through innovation. We connect the work being done with the current government priorities to best translate timely and actionable recommendations for change.
FOR GOVERNMENT POLICYMAKERS
We improve the innovation pipeline by featuring the work of researchers and innovators, leading to faster evidence-based policy changes for older Canadians
We gather policymakers and discuss topics that address their current priorities and build networks at provincial, territorial, and federal levels
We provide jurisdictional scans, evidence briefs, literature reviews, and presentations to provide policymakers with an easily digestible snapshot of the types of work being done
FOR RESEARCHERS
We offer knowledge translation services to adapt their work to suit different audiences
We provide platforms that amplify their work, which allows their work to better contribute to policy changes that benefit older Canadians
We facilitate networking between researchers doing complementary work and government and health care sectors that can benefit from their research
We involve undergraduate and post-graduate students through internships, national challenges, and professional development programs to foster their ability to enrich the policy development process
