EnvelheCiência: Importance of Disseminating Research on Aging and Dementias in the Brazilian Population

Abstract

The objective of this project is the adequate and systematic dissemination of the results of research activities carried out at the Laboratory of Biology of Aging at the Federal University of São Carlos (LABEN-UFSCar). We believe that this action will contribute to strengthening the country's science and technology system. We are certain that the country's scientific and technological advancement depends significantly on the support of society and the dissemination of scientific knowledge to a broad public. It is clear that scientific dissemination plays a crucial role in building a society that values the search for knowledge and its practical application. In this context, we propose the development of a scientific journalism project aimed at LABEN-UFSCar. The objective is to inform and educate the public about the research carried out in this laboratory, in particular the research related to this thematic project, which is currently recruiting participants to collect data and biological samples. The relevance of studies carried out at the University for understanding the processes related to dementia and its implications for the health and quality of life of the population will be disseminated with the development of this project. Our group is already carrying out, albeit at a much lower level than our potential, the dissemination of research, with support from the Social Communication Coordination of our University (CCS-UFSCar). However, these actions largely depend on the availability of students and the LABEN coordinating professor, who are involved in multiple tasks, including academic, research and bureaucratic tasks. The science journalism fellow will work closely with LABEN researchers to transform research results into accessible and understandable content for the general public. The journalist will be responsible for producing articles, reports, interviews and other scientific dissemination materials, which will be published in various media, such as websites, magazines, newspapers and social networks. We believe that the adequate dissemination of the work developed at LABEN will not only promote a greater appreciation of science and technology, but will also contribute to awakening the interest of young talents in the area and will stimulate society's participation in our research, but also in the debate on related issues. aging, dementia and the health of elderly people.