[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/raina.jpg” caption=”Parminder Raina is the lead principal investigator of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. File Photo.”]The Government of Canada today announced $30 million for a new study, led by a McMaster researcher, that will increase the understanding of common health problems affecting seniors. David Sweet, Member of Parliament for Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale, made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health.

The Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) is a national, long-term study of adult development and aging. The study will follow 50,000 Canadians, aged 45-85 years, over the next two decades. It is estimated that study organizers will hire as many as 160 researchers and research co-ordinators, laboratory staff and IT personnel over the next year at 10 centres across the country.

“Some people age in a healthy fashion despite many physical health challenges, while others who are in good physical health age less optimally,” said McMaster's Parminder Raina, the study's lead principal investigator. “The CLSA will answer questions that are relevant to decision-makers to improve the health of Canadians.”

Researchers will collect information on the changing biological, medical, psychological, social and economic aspects of the participants' lives. The design and extended follow-up of the CLSA will enable the study team to critically examine health transitions and trajectories over a longer-term period.

“This long-term study will look into the many factors affecting us as we age, while at the same time creating several new science-related jobs,” said Minister Aglukkaq. “This information will be used to improve the health and quality of life of older Canadians.”

“The Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging will be one of the most comprehensive studies on aging ever undertaken,” said Sweet. “It will inform the government's programs and services for the elderly.”

In addition to starting at mid-life, the CLSA is the first study of its kind to collect social and economic retirement factors, as well as clinical and biological measures.