• 12 October 2022

    Managing anxiety with cognitive behaviour therapy: What is it and how can it help?

    In this video, Dr. Randi McCabe discusses cognitive behavioural therapy, how it is used to target anxiety symptoms, as well as available resources, including self-help and therapist-assisted treatment. Learn about the nature of anxiety and its disorders and how to determine when the experience of anxiety warrants intervention.
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  • 12 October 2022

    World Arthritis Day: Managing your symptoms to age well

    Each year, on October 12, we recognize World Arthritis Day, a global event to raise awareness around the existence and impact of arthritis, its many forms, and symptoms that can help with early diagnosis. While World Arthritis Day is only one day out of the year, understanding the condition and associated prevention and management options can help manage it and reduce symptoms.
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  • 5 October 2022

    The crucial role of caregivers in emergency preparedness

    Caregivers are an invaluable resource: they are expected to provide care, support, facilitate navigation through health and social systems, and advocate for their loved ones. The role of caregivers is crucial, especially during disasters and as we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about the experiences of caregivers during emergencies.
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  • 4 October 2022

    World Mental Health Day: 4 strategies to improve your well-being

    Although World Mental Health Day is only one day of the year, it’s essential to prioritize mental well-being all year round. Read on to learn how these 4 strategies can help to treat and manage depression and improve your mental well-being.
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  • 28 September 2022

    6 evidence-based strategies for reducing blood pressure

    Looking for strategies to help you reduce your blood pressure or keep it in check? From lowering your salt intake to supplements, multiple strategies are available to increase your chance of success.
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  • 28 September 2022

    World Alzheimer’s Month: Strategies and resources for caregivers

    The job of a caregiver to someone with dementia can be an emotional rollercoaster. Fortunately, there are multicomponent strategies that can help family caregivers care for themselves while continuing to look after their loved ones.
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  • 21 September 2022

    Why are we attached to certain places

    The feeling of attachment to a place is a universal feeling that responds to human needs. This feeling is increasingly important as you age, as it plays a role in maintaining a positive self-identity. But what does "place attachment" mean for older adults?
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  • 21 September 2022

    Fall activities for older adults that boost well-being

    Fall officially arrives this week! With the change of seasons comes cooler weather and brilliant fall colours, providing an opportunity to enjoy the hobbies you love or try something new. So, whether you go for a walk, or curl up with a good book, feel good knowing you’re doing some good for both your body and your mind!
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  • 14 September 2022

    Getting your game on? Smartphone apps to increase physical activity levels

    Gamified smartphone apps show promise as a tool to help you get moving.
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  • 14 September 2022

    How social isolation impacts older adults

    Humans are naturally social animals; we live with others and support each other, which has given us an evolutionary advantage. As we age, the risk of becoming socially isolated increases due to widowhood, smaller social networks, family moving away, and aging siblings and friends who have passed away. Explore our resources below to learn more about social isolation, risk factors, and things you can do to reduce it.
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  • 7 September 2022

    Living in a nursing home: What about "young" residents?

    Many people under the age of 65 are living in nursing homes. Who are these young residents and how can we improve their quality of life?
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  • 6 September 2022

    September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

    Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, sometimes called Blue September, is an opportunity to raise awareness and educate Canadians about prostate cancer, including risk factors and treatment options. In Canada, it is estimated that 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. It is the most diagnosed non-skin cancer and the third-leading cause of cancer-related death in men.
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  • 31 August 2022

    Evidence-based considerations around long-term care

    The decision to transition yourself or a loved one to a long-term care facility is not an easy one. Luckily, research exists to help you learn about your long-term care options and support you through the decision-making process.
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  • 28 August 2022

    Evidence-based approaches for managing arthritis

    There are many ways to manage arthritis, reduce symptoms, and improve mobility. Self-management strategies often involve weight management, heat and cold therapies, and therapeutic exercises. Assistive devices, medication and surgery may also be used depending on the type and severity of arthritis.
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  • 24 August 2022

    The promises of remote-monitoring technologies

    Remote-monitoring technologies and other virtual-care services appear promising to support aging in place. What can we learn from the body of research evidence about remote-monitoring technologies and whether there are fulfilling their promises?
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  • 23 August 2022

    Improving the quality of life for people living with dementia

    Finding opportunities to maintain or improve the quality of life of people living with this condition is of utmost importance to older adults, caregivers, and health and social professionals.
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  • 17 August 2022

    Can calcium supplementation reduce the risk of high blood pressure?

    Looking to prevent high blood pressure? Research demonstrates that increasing calcium intake, namely through supplements, has a role to play.
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  • 17 August 2022

    Get outdoors! The health benefits of the outdoor activities you love

    Summer is slowly winding down, and fall is just around the corner. Now is the perfect time to get outside and reap nature's benefits. Not only is nature beautiful to admire, but it also offers many physical and mental health benefits.
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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.
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  • 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?
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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).