Ellen Gee Lecture addresses shifting demographics and public policy

On February 5, the SFU Gerontology Research Centre hosted its 21st Ellen Gee Memorial Lecture, drawing students, faculty, and community members into a thoughtful discussion about aging, demographics, and public policy.

The lecture honours the legacy of Ellen Gee, one of Canada’s most distinguished social demographers, feminists and gerontologists whose research examined the social and demographic forces shaping Canadian families and aging populations.

This year, the lecture featured Isobel Mackenzie, former Seniors Advocate for British Columbia (2014–2024) and current adjunct professor in SFU’s Department of Gerontology. Her presentation, “Aging is Not Our Fault: The Generational Challenges of Shifting Demographics,” challenged common narratives that cast older adults as the primary cause of rising healthcare costs, housing pressures, and fiscal strain.

Mackenzie emphasized that Canada’s healthcare system is built on a “no fault” principle, a collective model in which everyone contributes, even though utilization of the system is not equal across the life course. She argued that complex issues like healthcare and housing pressures result from broader policy choices and demographic shifts, not the natural process of aging. Rather than fueling generational blame, she called for nuanced, evidence-based discussion and intergenerational solidarity. 

In addition to the lecture, the GRC presented its Seniors Leadership Award to four outstanding recipients. Established in 2001, the award recognizes the significant contributions that British Columbian seniors and organizations make as volunteers in their communities. 

This year’s awardees included:

• QUIRK-e, a Vancouver-based 2SLGBTQIA+ seniors’ group that works to create a safe and vibrant space for queer senior citizens. Through storytelling and performance, they amplify the voices of 2SLGBTQIA+ older adults and foster connection, resilience, and belonging. 

• Wendy Sarkissian, for her leadership on the Older Adult Advisory Board and contributions to the COPE project, helping shape research to ensure findings are meaningful and accessible to older adults, while advancing equity, inclusion, and climate adaptation planning. 

• Sylvia Helmer, recognized for her dedicated volunteer work with COSCO Seniors Health and Wellness workshops, where she serves as statistician, presenter, and mentor. She also contributes to updating workshop materials and advancing research that supports health literacy for older adults.

• Langley Meals on Wheels, led by Executive Director Shannon Woykin was recognized for its community impact, which grew from serving 25 clients to now delivering more than 45,000 meals annually, addressing food insecurity and social isolation across Langley.

Together, these awardees exemplify the leadership, compassion, and community engagement that strengthen communities across the province.

A recording of the lecture is available online here.