Frequently Asked Questions
Equity is a core principle embedded in every phase of our research study. We have intentionally selected diverse sites that represent a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds, including deeply affordable housing and public seniors’ housing. This ensures that we are capturing the experiences and needs of populations that are often underrepresented in health and aging research.
Funding supports program implementation, ensuring accessibility for all participants. It is focused on improving access to local, affordable, and community-based supports in key areas such as food security, social isolation, and physical activity.
Through these efforts, we are committed to advancing health equity and ensuring that the benefits of the study reach those who are most vulnerable and in need of support.
We are using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to evaluate how the NORC programs are being put into practice. CFIR helps us look at different factors that can affect the success of these programs, such as the programs themselves, the communities where they are offered, the people involved, and the steps taken to implement them. This approach allows us to identify barriers and facilitators, ensuring a thorough understanding of how programs are adapted and sustained across diverse sites.
We hope this study will significantly improve the success of NORC programs by enhancing how they are implemented. Our goals include making these programs more sustainable and increasing awareness about their benefits. Ultimately, we aim to help spread and expand NORC programming across Canada, ensuring that more older adults have access to the support they need to live healthier, more connected lives.
To find out if you live in a NORC, think about these things:
- Neighbors: Do many people in your building or neighborhood seem to be 65 or older?
- Housing: Are you living in an apartment or housing area where older people tend to stay, but it’s not specifically designed for seniors?
- Local Services: Are there nearby services or activities that help older adults, like health clinics, social events, or transportation options?
If you notice these characteristics, you might be living in a NORC!
