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10 August 2022
Ageism and stereotypes in the workplace
Even though older workers have a lot to contribute to businesses and society regarding their productivity and knowledge, their positive contributions can often be overlooked. Employers must foster non-discriminatory, inclusive work environments by equitably offering career development opportunities to all employees and setting accommodations to address aging-related issues to protect the mental health and wellbeing of older adults in the workforce.Full story -
8 August 2022
Healing through restorative justice
Many victims of crime feel that the traditional criminal justice system is unresponsive, unsatisfactory and painful. Would you consider talking to the person who harmed you? Do you believe that restorative justice is effective?Full story -
3 August 2022
Horticultural therapy: Are there benefits to guided gardening?
Happy gardening! Research shows that horticultural therapy may hold physical and emotional health benefits.Full story -
3 August 2022
Identifying ways to improve the quality of life of older adults living with dementia
For older adults with dementia, depression, anxiety, and agitation can arise due to difficulty learning new things, making decisions, loss of independence, and inability to complete daily activities. This can have implications for an individual’s quality of life. For caregivers and care professionals, finding opportunities to maintain or improve the quality of life of people with this condition is a priority.Full story -
27 July 2022
Making self-care a regular part of your daily routine
Practicing self-care daily involves looking after your mental well-being, incorporating exercise and movement, eating nutritious foods, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding harmful behaviours such as smoking cigarettes. While it may sound simple, it can be challenging for some older adults to do these things for many reasons—such as lack of time, injury, or disability.Full story -
27 July 2022
Climate change: When generations face challenges together
The prevailing discourse on climate change sometimes pit generations against each other or place blame on certain generations over others. But evidence shows the importance of intergenerational relations and solidarity to face this pressing societal challenge.Full story -
20 July 2022
Testosterone treatment in men: What you need to know
Research highlights the potential benefits and harms of testosterone treatment in men who have low testosterone levels without a related medical condition.Full story -
20 July 2022
Are assistive devices suitable for me or my loved one?
While assistive technologies provide many benefits, some older adults remain reluctant to use them. They may fear being stigmatized or discriminated against, feel a loss of independence and sense of control, or think of assistive devices as a last resort. There also may be confusion (and concerns) about what assistive technology is publicly covered or not and under what conditions.Full story -
13 July 2022
Homelessness: Breaking the cycle
In Canada, nearly 25% of those sleeping in homeless shelters are 50 years of age or older. And this phenomenon is accelerating...Full story -
13 July 2022
Four ways to enhance your financial capability
On average, Canadians are living longer, which means more financial resources, and more careful management of financial resources is required to ensure they last for as long as you need them to. Once retired, older adults (and their caregivers) face the challenge of making a realistic budget based on fixed and often limited incomes while juggling many priority expenses.Full story -
6 July 2022
3 research-based benefits to being involved in conversations about your health – part 2
Keep ‘em coming! Research outlines even more benefits to being involved in conversations and decision making around your own health or the health of a loved one.Full story -
6 July 2022
3 strategies to help you on your menopause journey
Whether you’re well into your journey through menopause or nearing the start of this next chapter of your life, a few evidence-based strategies are available to help women deal with the most common symptoms and complications that accompany menopause.Full story -
29 June 2022
Do you remember when we first met?
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.Full story -
28 June 2022
Why vitamin D is an important part of healthy aging
There are many health benefits associated with vitamin D. It can contribute to stronger bones, help fight off respiratory infections and regulate insulin levels. However, getting a healthy, daily dose of vitamin D can be challenging and a common problem for many Canadians.Full story -
22 June 2022
4 evidence-based strategies to help you on your journey towards stroke recovery
From regaining arm function to communication skills, post-stroke recovery is no easy feat. However, research highlights a variety of strategies that stroke survivors can lean on.Full story -
21 June 2022
How your peers can play an essential role in healthy aging
We experience many of our best moments with our peers and lean on them during times of hardship. But did you know that when it comes to our health and well-being, leaning on our peers for support may help improve health and social outcomes?Full story -
15 June 2022
Public art and its impact on our lives
Public art leaves few people completely indifferent. It can move, amuse, make people think, confuse, cringe, and sometimes even shock. But what does research tell us about the effects of public art on cities, places and people's lives?Full story -
14 June 2022
Summertime activities to keep your body and mind healthy
Many outdoor activities help older adults stay physically and mentally fit. Whether you enjoy walking, biking, hiking, or tai-chi, you can reap the many health benefits of outdoor activities. Physical benefits include improved strength, better endurance and greater flexibility. Exercise is not only good for the body but your mind too! It can reduce stress, improve self-esteem, and reduce depressive symptoms.Full story -
8 June 2022
Engaging in meaningful activities outside of care settings: What’s the impact on people with dementia?
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.Full story -
8 June 2022
Type 2 diabetes: Can it be reversed?
In this video, Dr. Diana Sherifali discusses what type 2 diabetes is, its symptoms, and how it can be managed and, in some cases, put into remission. Learn how excess sugar in your blood acts as an 'aging accelerant' resulting in both 'micro' and 'macro' complications throughout the body.Full story
DISCLAIMER: These summaries are provided for informational purposes only. They are not a substitute for advice from your own health care professional. The summaries may be reproduced for not-for-profit educational purposes only. Any other uses must be approved by the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal (info@mcmasteroptimalaging.org).
Many of our Blog Posts were written before the COVID-19 pandemic and thus do not necessarily reflect the latest public health recommendations. While the content of new and old blogs identify activities that support optimal aging, it is important to defer to the most current public health recommendations. Some of the activities suggested within these blogs may need to be modified or avoided altogether to comply with changing public health recommendations. To view the latest updates from the Public Health Agency of Canada, please visit their website.
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Support for the Portal is largely provided by the Labarge Optimal Aging Initiative. AGE-WELL is a contributing partner. Help us to continue to provide direct and easy access to evidence-based information on health and social conditions to help you stay healthy, active and engaged as you grow older. Donate Today.
