The Centre collégial d’expertise en gérontologie (CCEG) at Cégep Drummond, in partnership with the City of Drummondville, Drummond économique and MRC Drummond, announced the creation of Quebec’s very first Gerontopole. This initiative aims to develop solutions tailored to the needs of seniors by promoting collaboration between the public, private and community sectors.
The Quebec Gerontopole: an interdisciplinary approach to innovative solutions
Faced with the challenges of demographic aging, the Quebec Gerontopole aims to create a forum for exchange between the various players involved. Priority areas include housing, digital services, urban planning, new technologies, mobility, health, safety and employment. Drawing on evidence-based data and varied expertise, the initiative seeks to develop strategies and policies tailored to the realities of Quebec’s seniors.
A structuring project with regional and provincial scope
Launched thanks to a synergy between the political, economic and educational communities of Centre-du-Québec, the first Québec Gérontopôle will promote the development of products and services based on in-depth studies. It is positioned as a catalyst for applied research and knowledge transfer, facilitating the emergence of innovative, sustainable solutions. Companies, public organizations and community associations will be invited to collaborate closely to ensure optimal management of issues related to aging.
A collective commitment to the well-being of Quebec’s seniors
Partners involved in the development of Quebec’s first Gérontopôle attest to the importance of this initiative for the well-being of seniors. According to Stéphanie Lacoste, Mayor of Drummondville, this marks a major step forward in connecting local players to propose innovative solutions.
Gerry Gagnon, General Manager of Drummond économique, points out that seniors are active consumers, and this cluster represents a unique opportunity for businesses to innovate for their benefit. Line Fréchette, Prefect of the Drummond MRC, emphasized that the MRC’s commitment as a founding partner would enable the specific characteristics of rural areas to be included. Finally, Marie-Ève Bédard, Director of the CCEG, highlights the opportunity for researchers and organizations to work together to develop services adapted to the needs of seniors.
Together, these players demonstrate their commitment to a better quality of life for this essential population.
Quebec’s new Gerontopole: an inspiring model for the region and beyond
Although initially designed for the Centre-du-Québec region, the Quebec Gerontopole could inspire other communities to adopt similar approaches. The aim is to gradually extend this model to other regions of Quebec, so that each community can adapt the approach to its own needs and resources. This structuring project paves the way for a better understanding of demographic aging and for initiatives adapted to local realities, while promoting the sharing of experience and expertise between the various players involved in the field of active aging and quality of life for seniors.
Published by the Editorial Staff on