Work on the influence of horticulture therapy on the well-being of older people has also been actively supported by the Foundation. This work includes the funding of a research study to test the effects of horticulture on the well-being of older people and another project which identified suitable tools for older and frail persons. Issues of access to dental services have recently been addressed by a number of research projects funded by the Foundation. Researchers included several undergraduate dental students who personified the Foundation's strategy of actively encouraging younger and relatively less experienced personnel to develop an interest in the issues of old age in the expectation that they may embark on a long-term career in Gerontology and related fields. The field of Music Therapy is also receiving support from the Foundation through its sponsorship of two separate research studies.
Funding is provided for work undertaken at various institutions throughout Australia.
Support has also been specifically provided to relatively novice researchers, with the intent of encouraging a career-long interest in research in Gerontology. Yet medical and social research is expensive, with large sums required to provide sufficient income for the essential funding of vital research programmes. The Gerontology Foundation is an authorised charity and receives no government subsidies. The Foundation invites interested individuals and organisations to become actively involved in solving the problems of ageing. The Foundation appeals to interested members of the general public, professionals, trusts and the corporate sector to provide tax deductible donations, sponsorships and bequests to fund its ongoing activities.