Aging with Agency

Mackenzie has been a Vancouver Island resident since 2019 and is currently completing a Master of Science degree at the University of Victoria. During her undergraduate studies, she was involved in dementia-focused research, which has since evolved into a broader focus on lifestyle interventions and social prescribing. Her work within the BRain Aging and NeuroCognitive Health (BRANCH) research group aims to support healthy cognitive aging by exploring how social engagement, physical activity, and community-based programs can be utilized throughout older adulthood.

Mackenzie will introduce the concept of aging with agency: the ability of older adults to make meaningful choices, maintain autonomy, and actively shape their own well-being and life experiences as they age. This will include a discussion of current population-specific trends, highlight research emerging from the University of Victoria, and explore how evidence-based strategies, such as music- and exercise-based group activities, can support ongoing cognitive health. In addition, she will focus on bridging the gap between laboratory research and real-world application, with an emphasis on community implementation to reduce the impacts of loneliness and improve the experiences of older adults and caregivers alike.