Kinesiology Professor Laura Middleton appointed as new research chair
Laura Middleton, associate professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences at the University of Waterloo, has been appointed Schlegel Research Chair in Dementia and Active Living for a five-year term starting July 1, 2023.
Middleton's research is centred around the goal of promoting the well-being and independence of individuals living with, or at risk for, dementia. To achieve this, she delves into the role of physical activity and complementary lifestyle strategies. Her research approach embodies co-design, involving people living with dementia, their care partners, health-care professionals and community service providers as co-researchers.
“Laura Middleton’s transformative work has benefited countless older adults and families already, and this new position will allow her to expand her impact,” said Tina Mah, executive director at the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging (RIA).
Dr. Lili Liu, Faculty of Health dean at the University of Waterloo, said, “This appointment recognizes the expertise and scholarly leadership that Professor Middleton has developed in topics related to living well with dementia.”
Middleton is co-lead of the Canadian Dementia Learning and Resource Network (CDLRN), a knowledge hub that facilitates collaboration and amplifies the success of community-based dementia projects across Canada.
More recently, Middleton led the Dementia Resources for Eating, Activity, and Meaningful Inclusion (DREAM) project, which developed strategies to improve the inclusion and participation of persons living with dementia and mild cognitive impairment in physical activity, healthy eating and other community wellness programs. Her research has also investigated the impact of combined exercise and cognitive training or healthy eating on individuals at risk for dementia, contributing valuable insights into potential preventive measures against the disease.
“I am excited to build upon the already successful dementia initiatives as Schlegel Research Chair,” said Middleton. “Working even more closely with the RIA will accelerate the mobilization of our research into practice to increase the impact of our research on the well-being and independence of those living with dementia.”
More about Laura Middleton's research:
