After 25 years in academia, Angelina Russo joined the GCMA as a Program Manager in March 2021.
Teaming an MBA, a Bachelor’s degree and a PhD with her proven international track record in digital culture communication, Angelina has built a career driven by her deep understanding of design
and innovation.
She believes that modern ageing should be one of our communities’ greatest priorities. More specifically she highlights we need to ensure ageing adults have the infrastructure and support to ensure successful ‘ageing in place’.
“Research shows many care home admissions are unexpected, perhaps somebody has fallen or becomes unwell and failure to plan for ageing in place can result in people struggling to return home,” Angelina explains.
“Ageing in place, is planning for how we live through the second half of life, ensuring that the activities and relationships that are meaningful to us can be accommodated to ensure fulfilled lives in our homes. When I joined the GCMA, I did so with intention of supporting people to age in place and age well,” says Angelina.
In her role with the GCMA, she works with researchers and partners including aged care providers, businesses, and the wider community, on a range of projects designed to develop solutions that help people plan for successful ageing in place.
“Beyond a developing ecosystem that is addressing the challenges of ageing in place, the real key is co-design. Ageing well means having the ability to make decisions about the products and services you use, the environment you live in, and who you interact with,” Angelina says.
“Perhaps even more importantly is when people respect ageing people’s decisions, allowing all adults to remain in their communities and to live the lives they choose.”
Angelina is managing the GCMA’s current portfolio of research into modern ageing, drawing inspiration from international programs that look after intergenerational wellbeing. She says the most important considerations for our ageing communities should be planning, dignity and the agency
to make choices.
“Perhaps even more importantly is when people respect ageing people’s decisions, allowing all adults to remain in their communities and to live the lives they choose.”
