Scholarship Recipient

Another mandate of CC-AAG is to provide educational and financial assistance to those studying gerontology.

Presenting the CC-AAG Scholarship Award
Winner for 2007: Sheila Watson

Sheila's Research Focus:

Universal design, a design philosophy that challenges convention and provides a design foundation for a more usable world, can provide future generations the ability to age in place, with dignity. Creating awareness of universal design is the focus of my Mount Royal College ‘Studies in Gerontology’ Practicum.

Imagine . . . a tastefully landscaped ramp, instead of stairs, as the entryway to your house; your shower is on the wall of your bathroom with a slightly slanted floor to allow for water drainage; electrical outlets and light switches are accessible to all; wide hallways and doorways; a room on the main floor that can be converted into a bedroom; a full bathroom on the main floor; and a main floor closet that can be converted into an elevator shaft; accessible kitchens with multi-level counterspace that have contrasting edges and rounded corners; drawer dishwashers; drawers instead of cupboards; lever door handles . . . and much more.

Imagine . . . aging in place.

I was very pleased and surprised to receive the Calgary Chapter – Alberta Association on Gerontology Scholarship. I chose to study gerontology because I enjoy older adults - their stories, their history and their views on life. In a perfect world, they should all be able to ‘age in place’. I chose my practicum topic because I believe that by incorporating the principles of universal design into new homes and apartments, older adults will have the option to ‘age in place’. I chose it also because of my interest in design. Throughout my life, many home plan and interior design magazines crossed my path. As a young girl I remember wanting to attend the Parsons School of Design in New York. That was a dream; hopefully, universal design will become a reality.

6 August 2007

To Association Members:

What a pleasant surprise to discover that I was the recipient of a $500 scholarship to further my study towards a Certificate in Gerontology from Mount Royal College. For me, gerontology is of the utmost importance. Although aging is inevitable, I don’t believe enough attention is given to the various aspects of aging. One of the reasons I chose to study gerontology was that, as part of the baby boomer generation, I hope to be at the forefront of the change that will inevitably happen as this large segment of the population ages.

I am looking forward to completing my practicum in the Fall semester, with a focus on seniors’ housing. There are obviously many facets associated with this topic; however, if there is a specific topic that your association would like researched would you please let me know. I’m still in the planning stages, but will be working with Alberta Seniors and Community Supports.

I would like to become a member of your association and have completed and attached a Membership Form. Thank you once again for the Scholarship.

Sincerely,

Sheila Watson