SMART Researchers and Trainees
Accessing the SMART database of senior volunteers (60+) requires researchers and trainees to complete and submit an application depending on the role you are looking to fill; Advisor, Participant, or Mentor. (see below)
Once your application(s) has been reviewed and accepted, you will receive notification that your volunteer opportunity will be distributed to SMART’s list of Senior Volunteers. At this point it is up to individual Seniors to contact you to participate in your study and/or student mentorship.
All Senior Volunteer’s personal information is stored in a secure database updated and accessed by SMART personnel. No individual researchers or students will have access to any personal information, unless provided by the Senior Advisors, Participants, or Mentors directly.
SMART Research Advisor Application
SMART Research Participant Application
SMART Research Mentor Application
Completed application forms should be sent by email to Krista Frazee at krista_frazee@sfu.ca
Senior Research Advisors
Senior Research Advisors provide key information to researchers about the needs of seniors. They may serve as key informants on how best to recruit other seniors, or be consulted on issues of design and instrumentation.
For example advisors can provide advice on the wording of questions, the size and type of font used on questionnaires, or the appropriateness of interview questions.
Senior Research Participants
Senior Research Participants are sent regular updates on senior-specific studies taking place across the province. Examples of participation could include telephone surveys, in-depth interviews, or blood samples.
Senior Mentors
Senior Mentors provide mentorship to student trainees in an educational capacity. The majority of these students would be in professional programs and most likely be working with older adults.
Programs could include nursing, physiotherapy, and medicine, among others. Mentors would provide support and guidance through key parts of the student’s program, thus preparing future practitioners for professional practice and research with seniors.
If you are interested in any of these exciting opportunities, please contact Krista Frazee at krista_frazee@sfu.ca