Guest host Steve Martin interviewed Alison Cousineau, Professor in the School of Nursing, on Live and Local on AM800 about NC’s Aging in Place research study that uses aging simulation suits to help people better understand the physical challenges associated with aging.
Cousineau explained that the suits simulate challenges such as reduced mobility, impaired vision, fine motor difficulties and physical exhaustion, giving participants firsthand experience of how aging can affect everyday activities.
She highlighted the impact on NC students who have participated in the simulation, noting, “a lot of our students come out with high emotion, crying, very upset, because they didn’t realize what their grandma goes through or what their parents go through.”
Cousineau said the experience has prompted students to reconsider how they interact with older adults, including asking themselves, “Why was I rushing that person? I thought they could do more.”
Cousineau also discussed NC’s work with the Niagara Home Builders’ Association and how the research could help builders better understand considerations for aging in place, such as eliminating raised thresholds, improving lighting and designing homes that remain accessible as mobility and vision change.
Listen to the Live and Local on AM800 interview here.
