Blog Posts: Mental wellbeing

Each year, nearly 25,000 Canadians are hospitalized or die as a result of intentional self-harm. Self-harm is closely associated with suicide in older adults and may provide an opportunity for intervention to prevent suicide.

Many seniors suffer from physical or mental health problems such as depression, anxiety or loneliness. Aging can also be accompanied by a decrease in autonomy and a sense of loss of identity. Does the ability to tell one's story in a digital format improve the well-being of older adults?

Lean on me? Research brings attention to potential strategies for reducing loneliness and social isolation in older adults living in the community and long-term care settings.

Is there an app for that? It is highly likely when it comes to health-related matters. Research suggests the following may be positively impacted by mobile health apps: weight management, blood sugar control, mental well-being, and physical activity.

Happy gardening! Research shows that horticultural therapy may hold physical and emotional health benefits.

Do you remember the first look or kiss you shared with your significant other? Co-reminiscence about early relationship development can boost feelings of closeness and support for older couples.

Getting out and about! Preliminary research shows that engaging in meaningful activities outside of aged care facilities may have positive effects on the health and well-being of people living with dementia.

Parkinson’s is the world’s fastest growing neurological disease. People with Parkinson's disease not only have to live with complex symptoms, but also must face stigma that can become internalized.

"Aging in place" is the preference of most people. However, the idea of ​​aging in place can take on a whole new meaning for people who have experienced trauma such as neglect, oppression, sexual abuse, violence, complicated grief, or any other extremely difficult life event.

Although no robust systematic review could be identified about zoom fatigue among older adults and the general population, experts have raised a red flag. The overuse of virtual communication platforms could lead to cognitive distortions and non-verbal overload inherent in video communication. This could even increase feelings of isolation and anxiety.

"Man's best friend" is a common phrase referring to the close relationship of loyalty and friendship between dogs and humans. The physical and psychological health benefits of owning a dog appear to be numerous. But does owning a dog lead to a longer, healthier life?

Sometimes a unique bond develops between grandparents and their grandchildren. But what factors can influence this emotional closeness, and what impact can it have on grandparents and grandchildren?

Are you or someone you know dealing with dementia and symptoms of depression? Get to know some of the available non-drug treatment options.

Are you or someone you know living with mild cognitive impairment or dementia? Research points to five strategies that can help improve cognitive and mental health.

Can telemedicine-based strategies help improve your mental well-being? Research shows some promise for improving depressive symptoms.

The environmental benefits of urban green spaces are well known: greenhouse gas reduction, stormwater control, biodiversity conservation, and more. But did you know that urban trees are also associated with human health and well-being?

Are you or someone you care for looking for a program to support recovery from alcohol misuse and dependence? See what the research says about widely used recovery support services.

Can leaning into your “artsy” side enhance your cognitive health? See what the evidence has to say about the use of visual art therapy for people with different levels of cognitive health.

Do you suffer from depression, social isolation or chronic conditions? Wondering how to get through the winter, confined in your home because of COVID-19? Could writing help you get out of the winter gloom, or even improve your physical and mental health?

Coping with the consequences of mild cognitive impairment or dementia is difficult enough without having to deal with depression as well. Can cognitive training provide any relief when it comes to depression?