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Workshop: From participants to partners: Strengthening the role of older adults as research partners [PCC004]

Wednesday May 6, 2026 11:15 - 12:15 J1

Workshop leader: Ann-Therese Hedqvist

Track: Workshops

While policy and funding frameworks increasingly call for public involvement, older adults remain underrepresented in roles that shape research priorities, methods, and knowledge production. So how can we meaningfully involve older adults as active co-creators in research, rather than passive participants? This workshop invites participants to explore strategies for strengthening the role of older people as research partners in health care. The workshop builds on insights from an ongoing mixed-methods study focused on the involvement of older adults as research partners. Together, we will explore how person-centred values can guide the design of inclusive and equitable research partnerships. The workshop draws on real-world examples and invites reflection on structural, relational, and practical conditions that enable or hinder meaningful involvement. Participants will engage in: A short framing presentation (10 minutes) introducing key findings from the umbrella review and early insights from the Delphi study. A collaborative mapping exercise (30 minutes) where small groups identify barriers, enablers, and innovative practices for involving older adults as partners across different research contexts. A plenary discussion (20 minutes) synthesising group insights into guiding principles and strategies for more inclusive research. Guiding questions include: What values, attitudes, and practices enable meaningful partnerships with older adults in research? What structural, relational, and practical conditions support or hinder co-creation in research? How can we move from tokenistic involvement to genuine shared ownership in the research process? Designed for researchers, older adult representatives, healthcare professionals, and policymakers, the workshop aims to foster mutual learning, surface tensions, and co-develop principles that can guide future research and policy. Participants will leave with practical ideas for strengthening partnership-based research involving older adults.
Language

English

Conference

GCPCC

GCPCC Seminar type

Workshop

GCPCC Code

PCC004

Lecturers

Ann-Therese Hedqvist Workshop leader