As Australia’s ageing population grows, there has been increasing need to find ways to keep people healthy and active for longer.

In a day long symposium, Murdoch University will be showcasing research into keeping people healthier as they age.

Participants will hear from the University of Pittsburgh’s Professor Kirk Erickson, a world authority on how the brain changes in late adulthood and factors that promote successful ageing.

Professor Erickson will discuss his ground-breaking research on the role of exercise in maintaining a healthy brain as people age.

Symposium participants will also gain insight into healthy ageing research being conducted at Murdoch University by PhD candidates, early and mid-career researchers.

Dr Belinda Brown, who investigates the role of lifestyle in maintaining a healthy ageing brain and preventing cognitive decline and dementia, is one of the organisers of the symposium.

“The Healthy Ageing Research Symposium is a great opportunity to showcase our work to the Murdoch community and wider community,” Dr Brown said.

“There is a great need for focused research into medical conditions associated with ageing. However, it is just as important to help people prevent disease and remain healthy, which is a major focus of our work at Murdoch University.

“This symposium has been developed for anybody with an interest in keeping healthy as they age, whether they are a researcher in the field or a member of the wider community.”

The Healthy Ageing Research Symposium will be held from 9am to 2pm on Friday 9 August in the Loneragan Theatre (Building 235.3.016) at Murdoch’s South Street campus. More information is available on the event website.