The Family Genealogists and Long-Lost Relatives Study

In this study, funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada (SSHRC), we want to learn more about the experiences of diverse midlife to older aged adults (aged 55+) who have searched for, and located a previously unknown immediate or closely related genetic relative. Download the recruitment poster here (pdf).

Find out if you are eligible for the AgeGen2 study by answering the screening questions below!

Why am I interested in this study?

A rising number of adults are searching for previously unknown genetic relatives using DNA testing/databases, online historical public records, and family stories. On a personal level, my motivation for this study originated with my own fascination to identify my maternal grandfather, who was previously unknown to my mother. After years of research and DNA test searches, I was able to solve my family mystery and it was a happy ending. I was also able to reunite my mother with some long-lost relatives prior to her passing. Since then, I have learned that many other people have had similar experiences and many interesting stories to share. Thus, as a sociology/gerontology professor who studies families and aging, I believe that the study insights will be very helpful to others, such as hobby/leisure groups or anyone wanting to learn more about this topic.

Ethical procedues: How will my personal information be protected?

Your privacy and confidentiality will be respected. Your name will remain confidential, using a pseudonym, and your individual answers will not be linked with your name or department in any reports of data. Your identity will remain confidential, unless otherwise stated by you, to ensure there are no potential risks to your participation in this study (full details and an informed consent form are provided on the survey link provided below).

Who can participate in AGEGen2?

Are you aged 55+?
Have you searched for, and located a previously unknown immediate or closely related genetic relative (i.e., parent, child, sibling, grandparent) using DNA testing and databases within the past 5 years?
Have you had at least one meaningful contact (i.e., face-to-face visit or phone call) with that long-lost immediate genetic relative? OR, if they are deceased or you have been unable to contact them, have you had contact with another relative who knew them and is also genetically related to you?

If this is the case, you are eligible to be part of this study!

How to participate

If you are interested in participating, we would love to hear about your experiences and would greatly appreciate your participation in this study. All you need to do is to fill out a web-based survey, which will take less than half an hour of your time.

漏 Art designs by Sam Mitchell

For more information, please contact the project coordinator:

Asli Ozer (asli_ozer@sfu.ca)

Dept. of Sociology/Anthropology, 丁香园AV

Principal Investigator:

Dr. Barbara A. Mitchell, PhD (mitchelo@sfu.ca)

Professor of Gerontology and Sociology, 丁香园AV

丁香园AV

Gerontology