Ageing is commonly accompanied by an associated increase in the prevalence of chronic musculoskeletal, metabolic and mental health conditions that affects physical capacity and overall decline in quality of life.
To date, most health aging interventions have been monodisciplinary, with a relatively narrow focus and loci of impact. What is now being advocated is more interdisciplinary health promotion measures for the attainment of healthy ageing.
Pathways to Healthy Ageing (PHA) is an RMIT Bundoora West campus interdisciplinary initiative, supported by RMIT’s Platforms, sustained by collaborative partnerships with a range of community and aged care organisations. The PHA model draws on the skills, knowledge and recommendations of academics, clinicians, researchers and community organisations working with older adults to inform its initiatives.
The RMIT team integrates the principles of healthy ageing in teaching future health professionals in allied and complementary health including nursing, psychology, pharmacy, osteopathy, chiropractic and Chinese medicine. It also embraces an evidence-based approach that translates clinical science into better health outcomes for older adults and to the community.
The interdisciplinary team offers unique skills, knowledge and collaborative networks to help answer research questions of public health importance in healthy ageing and includes a particular focus on digital health.
Several impact-focused projects are currently in train, supported by the Pathways to Healthy Ageing network, and the Enabling Impact Platforms – Biomedical and Health Innovation and Global Business Innovation.
