Grant: Canada Postdoctoral Research Award (CPRA) program

Many seniors who are unable to leave their homes for long periods, known as homebound (HB) seniors, face serious challenges in maintaining their health and well-being. For Black seniors in particular, these challenges are worsened by limited access to culturally appropriate programs, social isolation, and barriers to healthcare. They often live with multiple health conditions and may not have consistent access to a family doctor or coordinated care. This project focuses on improving care for HB Black seniors in the Greater Toronto Area by addressing how health and social care can be made more consistent, equitable, and culturally responsive. The research will unfold in three phases. First, we will review existing studies to understand how technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) have been used to identify and support HB seniors. Next, we will interview Black seniors, their families, and their care providers-including doctors, social workers, and community health centres-to explore their experiences and challenges with receiving and providing continuous care. Finally, using Afrocentric principles, we will bring together seniors, families, care providers, and community leaders in a "village meeting" to develop strategies for using AI and other tools to improve access and continuity of care for HB Black seniors. By centring the voices of Black seniors and their caregivers, this work will highlight how health and social systems can become more inclusive, coordinated, and responsive. It could translate to reduced isolation, improved access to trusted providers, and ensure care that respects cultural identity. Also, the project can inform policies that close equity gaps for racialized seniors and support more efficient care delivery through stronger coordination and culturally tailored approaches. This aligns with Canada's National Seniors Strategy and efforts to modernize healthcare, ultimately promoting healthier aging for vulnerable populations.