Ageing, Health and Well-Being Research Centre

Overview

The Sunway University Centre for Ageing, Health and Well-Being Research Centre (CARE) is a multidisciplinary research hub dedicated to advancing the science of ageing, health, and well-being. Our collaborative research team encompasses geriatricians and research scientists across various domains, including biophysical sciences, psychological sciences (cognitive science, psychology and mental health), psychosocial studies (psychological factors and social environments), biomedical sciences (genetics, toxicology, nutrition, oncology and biomolecular science), environmental health (pollution influence the ageing process) and socioeconomic research (economic and social determinants of health). By integrating these diverse fields, CARE aims to develop foundational research and evidence-based interventions that promote healthy, impactful, and successful ageing across the lifespan. 

Vision

To produce meaningful and impactful research that will benefit the individual and society. 

Mission

CARE is committed to enhancing medical, physical and mental health throughout the ageing process. Our research spans from early life to old age, identifying critical periods and proposing practical and cost-effective interventions that can prevent and mitigate age-related issues as well as promoting and maintaining a healthy independent life.  

We strive to:

  • Develop multidisciplinary research initiatives that address the complex factors causing muscle deterioration, cataracts, dental problems, dementia and Alzheimer’s  
  • Implement community-based programs that encourage active and healthy lifestyles among older adults.
  • Collaborate with national and international partners to advance the field of ageing research.
  • Inform and influence public policy to support the needs of the ageing population.

Through these efforts, CARE aims to be at the forefront of promoting successful ageing and improving the well-being of older individuals in Malaysia and beyond. 

Research Focus Areas

SU-CARE's research encompasses a broad spectrum of areas to address the multifaceted aspects of ageing:

  • Physical Health and Frailty: Developing programs to enhance physical function and prevent frailty in the elderly.
  • Cognitive and Psychological Health: Studying cognitive decline, mental health issues, and interventions to maintain psychological well-being in older adults.
  • Psychosocial Studies: Investigating the interplay between psychological factors and social environments, focusing on social support, community engagement and cultural influences.
  • Genetics and Molecular Biology: Investigating genetic factors and molecular pathways that influence ageing, aiming to identify biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets.
  • Nutrition, Lifestyle and Healthy Ageing: Investigating dietary, nutritional and lifestyle factors influencing ageing outcomes.
  • Digital Health, Artificial Intelligence and Innovative Technologies: Applying digital tools, wearable technologies and AI to support healthy ageing.
  • Socioeconomic Factors: Analyzing how income, education, occupation and access to healthcare impact ageing, and developing strategies to reduce disparities in ageing outcomes.
  • Environmental Factors: Investigating how environmental exposures-such as air pollution, noise and living conditions-affect the ageing process and health of older adults.
  • Translational Toxicology and Pharmacology: Evaluating biological effects, safety and mechanisms of therapeutic and environmental agents
     

Research Facilities and Services

CARE has access to a range of on-site and off-site facilities to support our research and activities:

  • On-site:
    • Human Performance Lab (HPL)
    • Biological Laboratory
    • Skills Laboratory

 

  • Off-site Collaborations:
    • Sunway Medical Centre (SunMED)
    • University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC)
    • South East Asia Ageing (SAAge) Network
    • Lancaster University (UK)