SHARP Members: Why Homecare Matters
Our research has demonstrated that accessible, reliable and robust homecare is important to seniors! Below you will find some of the words shared with us by SHARP members when asked, why does homecare matter?
Seniors Helping As Research Partners (SHARP)
The Seniors Helping as Research Partners (SHARP) group is an engaged group of older adults and caregivers who are interested in partnering with health researchers in a wide variety of ways. SHARP members are a curious and insightful bunch who are committed to ensuring that their voices are heard, and their perspectives are shared with researchers who study health system issues for older adults.
At GHS we are committed to partnering with the SHARP group to ensure our research is meaningful, informed, and mindful of the priorities of older adults themselves
SHARP members contribute to research in a variety of ways, including by:
- Participating in discussions, interviews and focus groups about a specific research topic
- Developing presentations and/or co-presenting with researchers on topics of interest.
- Partnering with researchers to design research studies, interpret findings, and develop resources for older adults.
- Assist with grant writing and planning for future research projects.
- Other activities such as events, workshops and social events
To date, SHARP has over 60 members from the Waterloo-Wellington region. We are always looking for new members to share their experiences, ideas and opinions.
If you are interested in joining the SHARP group, please contact us by filling out the 'contact us' page , or by email at sharp@uwaterloo.ca, or by calling Alexandra Whate at 519-888-4567 Ext. 40465
SHARP Research Symposium
On November 5, 2021, members of the SHARP group were invited to attend a Research Symposium that featured presentations by GHS Research Group members. These projects were made possible by the contribution of SHARP members.
Featured SHARP Member
Meet Bill Brubacher...
Bill Brubacher is a long-time resident of the Region of Waterloo and a successful entrepreneur. He is the former owner and President of Waterloo Music Co. Ltd., past President of the Canadian Music Publishers Association (CMPA), founding Director of the Canadian Music Reproduction Rights Agency (CMRRA), former Director of the Canadian Orff Schulwerk Society, a record producer and an internationally published author of 15 national best-selling books. He is a Certified Bereavement Specialist, and a Certified Conflict Coach/Elder Mediator, helping seniors and their families through difficult time through Caregivers Oasis, Pathfinder Canada, and Heart and Soul Bereavement for Seniors. He is also an active and supportive member of the SHARP group and has contributed to numerous projects, including the development of research related to care transitions for older adults.
Bill has recently authored a new book about his amazing life’s journey. His book, ‘Against the Odds’, is a ten-year testament to his incredible emotional, spiritual and mental tenacity as he fought to reinvent himself after experiencing tremendous loss. His model and message are an inspiration to all who struggle to survive in the face of defeat. Bill is currently offering selected readings and presentations of his book.
Bill can be contacted by email at billbrubacher@gmail.com