The late Dr. Fast held a doctorate in Family and Consumer Economics from Cornell University. Throughout her career, Janet engaged in research, policy and practice with a focus on the economics of aging and the paid work and unpaid care work of family members. Her research addressed family, labour, health and continuing care policy issues, and she was often called on to consult with or advise government policy-makers and NGOs on policy related to caregiving and workplace supports. She co-led an international and multidisciplinary research team investigating the intersection of work and care across the life course. She was a member of the leadership teams of two large, transdisciplinary and international research programs: the AGE-WELL National Centres of Excellence, Canada’s aging and technology network; and the UK-based Sustainable Care: Connecting People and Systems program.
Dr. Fast passed away in 2024. The legacy of her work is tremendous . You can read her obituary on the AGE-WELL website.