Ontario Tech University Enrolls 87-Year-Old Doctoral Student Researching Poetry and Aging

At 87 years old, Patricia Bayley has enrolled in the Doctor of Education program at Ontario Tech University’s Mitch and Leslie Frazer Faculty of Education, the university announced on October 21, 2024. According to Ontario Tech University, Bayley’s doctoral research focuses on poetry and its effects on older adults, including individuals living with dementia.

The university reports Bayley began her studies following a presentation about Ontario Tech’s age-friendly campus designation by Dr. Shilpa Dogra, Professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences. Bayley’s engagement with the university developed through her volunteer work with the Rotary Club of Port Perry. Her research draws on her experiences leading a poetry appreciation group established in 2017 at The Village of Taunton Mills retirement community, which she founded. The university states Bayley published a poetry collection, “Life’s Journey,” in 2021 and a second collection, “Horizons New,” in October 2024.

Ontario Tech University also states that Bayley’s doctoral work includes research on ethical questions relating to artificial intelligence. Bayley is quoted by the university as saying her life experience informs her approach to her studies.

Ontario Tech received an age-friendly campus designation in 2019, according to the university. Dr. Dogra, a member of Bayley’s supervisory committee, said older adults can contribute experience and wisdom that benefit the campus community.

Bayley’s doctoral supervisory committee includes Dr. Allyson Eamer, Associate Professor and Associate Dean in the Mitch and Leslie Frazer Faculty of Education, as well as Dr. Dogra.