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15 July 2024
Celebrating International Self-Care Day: A vital practice for older adults
As we age, prioritizing our well-being becomes increasingly crucial. International Self-Care Day, observed annually on July 24th, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of self-care in our lives, especially for older adults.Full story -
10 July 2024
3+ evidence-based benefits of exercise for Parkinson's disease
Are you or someone you know living with Parkinson’s disease? Research highlights where exercise can help.Full story -
9 July 2024
Seeing clearly: Maintaining eye health as we age
Our vision is a precious gift, and as we age, our eyes undergo changes which can increase the risk of certain eye disorders. Maintaining good eye health as we age is important and can help prevent vision problems. Read on for a few strategies you can employ and some important things to keep in mind.Full story -
3 July 2024
Antimicrobial resistance: What is it and why should you care?
In this 2-minute video, Dr. Jon Stokes discusses what antimicrobial resistance is, why it is “an under-discussed pandemic” and how antibiotics "uphold the entirety of modern medicine".Full story -
2 July 2024
Preventing falls to safeguard independence and well-being
July 5 is National Injury Prevention Day, focused on raising awareness of injuries that are predictable and preventable. By taking proactive measures to prevent falls, older adults can maintain independence and enjoy an active lifestyle.Full story -
26 June 2024
Staying active during the summer: Tips for older adults
Summer is a wonderful time to embrace the outdoors, soak up some sunshine, and stay active. For older adults, maintaining physical activity is crucial for overall health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you make the most of the summer months while staying active and safe.Full story -
25 June 2024
Understanding West Nile and Lyme disease
In this 2-minute video, Dr. Mark Loeb discusses the symptoms and complications of these diseases. Learn what you can do to protect yourself.Full story -
19 June 2024
Battling social isolation and loneliness from home
Making connections! Looking at the impacts of home-based strategies for improving social connectedness and loneliness.Full story -
19 June 2024
Beat the heat: Staying cool and healthy during a summer heat wave
June 20th, marks the official start to summer and things are already heating up. Some areas are already experiencing heat waves. While many enjoy the warmer temperatures, heat waves can pose health risks, especially for older adults. The good news is, there are a few things you can do to stay cool and healthy during a heat wave.Full story -
12 June 2024
Bridging the age gap: How intergenerational programs benefit older adults
Social isolation and loneliness are major concerns for older adults. But what if there were a way to combat these issues while fostering connection and purpose? Enter intergenerational programs, which bring together older adults and younger people for shared activities and learning.Full story -
11 June 2024
Vision as we age: Understanding common eye conditions
As we age, our eyes undergo natural changes, and the risk of certain eye disorders increases. In this webinar recording, Dr. Nina Ahuja discusses the most common and significant eye conditions affecting older adults, including an overview of cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Get a clear understanding of these conditions, their symptoms, and the latest treatment options.Full story -
5 June 2024
Addressing your environment for falls prevention?
Clear walkways ahead! Research points to the effectiveness of environmental programs for falls prevention.Full story -
5 June 2024
It's Men's Health Month! Take charge of your well-being
June is Canadian Men's Health Month, a time to refocus on what matters most: your health. We know men often prioritize others' needs before their own, but neglecting your well-being can have long-term consequences. The good news? Small changes can make a big difference. We have compiled a few tips to get you started.Full story -
29 May 2024
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 -
29 May 2024
Sharper vision for brighter days: Making eye health a priority
Our eyes are our windows to the world. So, when that window clouds over, our lives are impacted. As we age, our bodies change and so do our eyes, but the good news is, there are many proactive ways you can maintain your eye health continue to experience the world in vibrant detail.Full story -
22 May 2024
Behavioural strategies for quitting smoking: What works?
Looking to quit smoking? Research identifies behavioural strategies that may be able to help you achieve your goal.Full story -
22 May 2024
Spring forward with smart finances
May brings warmer weather and, hopefully, a chance to get out and enjoy yourself! But even on a fixed income, unexpected expenses can put a damper on those plans. Here are a few tips to keep your spring finances blooming now and all year round.Full story -
15 May 2024
Asthma and aging
Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs. These airways become inflamed and narrow, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing. In this 5-minute video, Dr. Imran Satia, discusses what asthma is, how it is treated, and the progression and management of both early and late-onset asthma as we age.Full story -
15 May 2024
Hear this! May is Speech and Hearing Month
Each year, the month of May in Canada is dedicated to raising public awareness about communication health and the vital role it plays in our everyday lives. Clear communication is critical at any age, but as we get older, hearing loss and speech difficulties can become more common. This month is a great reminder to prioritize communication health.Full story -
8 May 2024
The future is now! Can chatbots help us make healthy lifestyle changes?
Chatbots have entered the “chat”! Research delves into the use of chatbots as a way to help modify lifestyle behaviours.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.
