Fundación Universitaria María Cano continues to strengthen its leadership in socially impactful research through the work of its faculty and researchers, who develop innovative solutions to address community challenges. On this occasion, the institution celebrates the publication of the scientific article «Meanings of Aging and Disability in Older Adults Participating in Clothing Design Processes», published in the international journal Research on Ageing and Social Policy (Vol. 14, No. 2), a recognized publication focused on aging, social policy, and community transformation.

The study explores how adaptive clothing can become much more than a response to functional needs. The findings reveal that inclusive garments contribute to autonomy, reinforce personal identity, and promote social participation among older adults, becoming a tool that fosters dignity while challenging stereotypes associated with aging and disability.

Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the research analyzed the experiences of older adults participating in clothing design initiatives developed in Medellín, Colombia. The results demonstrated that adaptive garments not only address specific physical needs but also strengthen emotional well-being, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging among users.

One of the most significant aspects of this publication is its interdisciplinary and international nature. The research team included Edith Yahana Hernández Panduro, a research intern from the Delfín Program at the University of Guadalajara (Mexico); professors Jhon F. Santos and Angie Estefanía Mesa Burbano from the Physiotherapy Program, together with Juliana Ramos from the Speech-Language Pathology Program at Fundación Universitaria María Cano; and professors Ángela María Echeverri, Gustavo Adolfo Sevilla, and Andrés Felipe Gil from the Fashion Design Program at Institución Universitaria Pascual Bravo.

This collaboration between health sciences, social sciences, and design provided a comprehensive perspective on the challenges faced by older adults with disabilities, demonstrating that inclusion requires an understanding of the physical, emotional, social, and cultural dimensions of human experience.

Beyond its academic contribution, this research exemplifies how scientific knowledge can be translated into tangible benefits for communities. Its findings provide valuable insights for the development of inclusive design strategies, the strengthening of active aging policies, and the creation of more accessible and participatory environments for older adults.

Through this international publication, Fundación Universitaria María Cano reaffirms its commitment to generating meaningful knowledge, promoting social innovation, and conducting research that contributes to human and social transformation. It also strengthens national and international academic cooperation networks that expand the impact of research and help address some of the most pressing challenges facing contemporary society.

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