Blog
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Getting interactive with our brain health through e-learning lessons
Learn about brain health through the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal’s interactive e-learning lessons.Full story -
Is dementia a vaccine-preventable condition?
What if protecting your brain were as simple as rolling up your sleeve? New research shows that common vaccines, such as those for shingles, flu, and pneumonia, may lower your risk of dementia by 20%.Full story -
Linking cognition and mobility
Research highlights the benefits of exercise for our body and mind! Don't miss tips and tricks on how to get and stay active.Full story -
Linking sensory loss to cognitive decline
Are sensory loss and cognitive decline linked? Find out what the research has to say!Full story -
Is it normal aging or mild cognitive impairment?
Understanding the difference between normal aging and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is crucial for recognizing when cognitive changes may require attention. Learn more and watch a webinar recording where Drs. Anthony Levinson and Richard Sztramko provide valuable insights into these distinctions, the risk factors, and strategies for managing cognitive health.Full story -
Dementia: What you need to know
Did you know that 45% of dementias could be delayed or prevented? In this 5-minute video, neuropsychiatrist Dr. Anthony Levinson describes what dementia is and the non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors that can contribute to it.Full story -
3 areas home-based strategies can help
Research spotlights where home-based strategies can be effective.Full story -
Tackling 3 common issues in people living with dementia with evidence-based tips
Research points to strategies that aim to help people living with dementia improve sleep, depressive symptoms, and everyday functioning.Full story -
Seeing is understanding: The role of visual strategies to support older adults with cognitive impairment
Many older adults experience cognitive changes that can make understanding, communication and decision making difficult. Visual methods of communication can help address these challenges, leading to improved autonomy, confidence, and social well-being.Full story -
What is Alzheimer disease?
In this 2-minute video, Dr. Anthony Levinson gives an overview of Alzheimer disease, its prevalence, signs and symptoms, and the difference between normal age-related cognitive changes and dementia.Full story -
Genetics and dementia: What's the connection?
In this webinar recording, Drs. Tricia Woo and Anthony Levinson demystify the role that genetics and other non-modifiable risk factors play in a person's risk of developing dementia. Discover the difference between sporadic and familial Alzheimer disease and learn about the role of susceptibility genes in increasing your risk. Learn about genetic testing and who should get a test. Explore how to reduce your risk, delay the onset, or slow the progression of dementia by addressing various modifiable risk factors to reduce damage to the brain and to increase capacity.Full story -
Cause for concern? Medications and falls in people living with cognitive impairment
Research addresses questions around side effects related to commonly prescribed cognitive enhancers.Full story -
Living with dementia: Non-drug options for pain management
Pain reduction in people living with dementia. Non-drug options may be a good first step.Full story -
Dementia risk reduction: A how-to guide
Currently, treatments for dementia are limited. This makes prevention that much more important. The idea that you could do something about your risk of dementia is a relatively new concept. In this webinar, Drs. Anthony Levinson and Richard Sztramko discuss dementia and how you can decrease your personal risk of developing it by addressing various modifiable risk factors. It's never too early or too late to reduce your risk.Full story -
Getting a head start! Are there benefits to implementing early-stage strategies for caregivers of people with cognitive impairments?
Learn about early-stage strategies that may help you as a caregiver for a person with dementia or mild cognitive impairment.Full story -
Non-drug options for dementia-related sleep problems
Take a look at what the evidence says about non-drug options for dementia-related sleep problems.Full story -
Violence against family caregivers: Symptom of the disease or abuse?
We often hear about cases of older adults being victims of poor care, being neglected or being financially abused by their family caregivers. But sometimes, it is the family caregiver who is a victim. How can we determine if this is the symptoms of a disease or an act of abuse?Full story -
3 evidence-based strategies for those living with dementia and their caregivers
Living with dementia or caring for someone who is? Research highlights 3 more strategies for improving cognitive or psychological health.Full story -
Coping strategies for memory loss
Older adults, whether cognitively impaired or not, use three types of strategies to cope with memory loss: external, internal and behavioural strategies.Full story -
“Sweet dreams are made of these?” 3 strategies that aim to improve sleep
Sleep and sleep quality play an important role in keeping us healthy. There are multiple strategies that aim to help us sleep longer or better; research sheds light on which ones are effective and which ones we may want to pass on.Full story


