Head of research group: Sine Agergaard

Who we are?

Active Health is a cross-disciplinary group of researchers with backgrounds in medical anthropology, pedagogy, psychology, and sociology, along with exercise and health sciences.

Our research – what we do?

Our research evolves around the key issue of actively involving not only health challenged groups but also public and civil stakeholders in promoting healthy living across all life stages (focusing on youth wellbeing and healthy ageing). Particular attention is given to the interplay between physical, mental and social dimensions of embodied well-being, and to cross-sectoral collaboration between health care providers and civil society that make up a widespread community structure for prevention and health promotion.

How does our research contribute to societal health challenges?

Our research informs nation-wide policies and programs that are directed towards promoting active living and community health. With a specific interest in reducing inequity in health our research often includes groups in vulnerable positions along with community stakeholders.

Who are our key collaborators?

Group members work closely together with numerous public institutions, civil society organizations and private enterprises, such as municipalities, public schools, sport organizations, leisure clubs, voluntary social associations and learning platforms.

Living Lab

The group has established Lab for Codesign and Innovation in Health. 

Inspired by the living lab model the aim is to develop a user-centered and open hub that link university research with its societal stakeholders. The lab hosts workshops and meetings with private, public and civil stakeholders such as patients and family members, health professionals and volunteers.

Utilizing lab researchers’ expertise in qualitative methods and participatory research designs the lab is a hub for experimenting with how digital tools and devices can enhance active involvement of target groups as well as stakeholders. The lab equipment can support co-creation, design thinking, prototype development, involvement and shared decision making, along with facilitating play and movement as part of these processes.