Students of Gilbrea: Voices Shaping the Future of Aging

About the Series

The Gilbrea Centre for Studies in Aging is proud to showcase the work of our student members through the Student Research Spotlight Series. Students are an integral part of the Centre’s community, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the study of aging.

This series highlights the research interests, experiences, and aspirations of students affiliated with the Gilbrea Centre. Through short interviews, we invite you to learn more about their work, what motivates them, and how they are contributing to advancing knowledge in the field of aging.

We hope these spotlights not only celebrate our students’ achievements but also inspire conversation, collaboration, and new ways of thinking about aging across disciplines.

Meet Zoe Yalung

Name/Program/Department:
Zoe Yalung
MSc Global Health, McMaster University
BA Combined Honours Health & Society and Aging & Society, McMaster University

What sparked your interest in aging?

My interest in aging really grew out of the community I was raised in, which deeply valued and prioritized the needs of older adults. Because of that, I’ve always felt a natural connection to this population, and I knew early on that I wanted my studies and future career to focus on supporting them. In high school, I started volunteering at a long-term care home, where I spent time with residents and built one-on-one relationships. Those moments (whether it was sharing stories or simply keeping someone company) really solidified my interest in working with older adults and inspired me to continue down this path.

What’s your current research in a nutshell?

I’m a qualitative researcher who loves listening to people’s stories and experiences. My work looks at many aspects of aging and caregiving, especially how people interact with the healthcare system — whether that’s older adults themselves, their families, or the frontline workers who support them. During my undergraduate thesis, I looked at how people’s racial and cultural backgrounds can affect their experiences with caregiving in diverse communities, and now in my master’s I’m excited to broaden that lens to global perspectives on aging and to explore different approaches to end-of-life care. At the heart of my research is a simple goal: making sure real people’s voices are at the centre of how we understand health and care.

How has being part of the Gilbrea Centre helped shape your journey?

I first joined the Gilbrea Centre as a volunteer through an experiential learning course, and it opened so many doors for me. I built meaningful relationships with older adults, connected with students and researchers who shared a passion for aging, and was introduced to a network of older adults eager to connect with students. With the Centre’s support and a student club I volunteered for, I helped organize an intergenerational dog therapy event — one of my favourite experiences of my fourth year, and a joyful space for students and older adults to come together! The Centre also connected me with the professor who became my thesis supervisor, and through her guidance I discovered my passion for research. Looking back, Gilbrea has been a constant source of mentorship, inspiration, and community that has shaped both my academic journey and personal interest in aging studies.

What’s one myth about aging you wish people would stop believing?

That aging means you stop being active, curious, or capable of growth. In reality, aging is something we experience every single day, across our entire lives. At every stage there are new ways to adapt, contribute, and keep learning. Growing older doesn’t close doors, it simply opens up different opportunities to learn and engage with the world.

What advice would you give to students curious about aging studies?

Aging research is so much broader than most people expect. It’s not just about medical conditions or the biology of getting older, but it also covers the social dimensions of aging from caregiving and community issues to health systems and equity. Because aging is part of every stage of life, there’s room for every discipline to play a role. My advice is to follow the angle that intrigues you most, but also don’t be afraid to explore new perspectives!

What’s something fun about you?

I’m a big foodie! I love experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and also exploring local restaurants or trying new eats while travelling. Food has always been one of my favourite ways to connect with people.

The Gilbrea Centre for Studies in Aging is proud to feature Zoe as part of our Student Research Spotlight series — celebrating the insight, curiosity, and community-driven spirit she brings to the study of aging.