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8 May 2024
Celebrating Mental Health Week: A time for connection and kindness
Did you know that Canada has a whole week dedicated to mental health? Every year in May, since 1951, Canadians come together to raise awareness and celebrate the importance of mental well-being. This year's theme, running from May 6th to 12th, is all about the power of compassion.Full story -
1 May 2024
What is sepsis?
Sepsis is a life-threatening medical condition triggered by the body’s extreme response to an infection. Most recent estimates indicate there are over 75,000 cases of sepsis per year in Canada, leading to 18,000 deaths. In this two-minute video, critical care physician Dr. Alison Fox-Robichaud describes sepsis, who is most at risk, and how it can be prevented.Full story -
1 May 2024
Reduce Your Risk of Skin Cancer: 5 Sun Safety Tips
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month in Canada, and it's a great time to remind everyone, especially older adults, about the importance of sun safety. Did you know that over half of all skin cancer cases are diagnosed in people over 65? The good news is that you can significantly reduce your risk with a few simple steps.Full story -
24 April 2024
Fact or fiction: The impact of vitamin D on 3 common diseases
Research tackles whether vitamin D is an effective option for the treatment or prevention of 3 common diseases.Full story -
24 April 2024
The unsung heroes: Why caring for caregivers matters
Caring for caregivers is not just a moral imperative; it's a strategic investment in the health and well-being of our communities. By recognizing, valuing, and supporting the invaluable work of caregivers, we create a more compassionate and resilient society for all.Full story -
17 April 2024
Staying steady: 5 tips to prevent falls
As we age, our bodies change, and tasks that were once second nature may become more challenging. One of the most significant concerns for older adults is the risk of falling, and globally, falls are the second leading cause of death from unintentional injury.Full story -
16 April 2024
What is stroke?
In this 3-minute video, Dr. Ada Tang, Assistant Dean of Rehabilitation Science, explains what you need to know about stroke, including signs, prevention, and rehabilitation.Full story -
10 April 2024
Parkinson’s and falls prevention: What works?
Research highlights what falls prevention strategies may be beneficial for people living with Parkinson’s disease.Full story -
10 April 2024
The health benefits of walking: A step towards healthy aging
Incorporating walking into daily routines doesn't require expensive equipment or elaborate plans. Simply lace up comfortable shoes, step outside, and embrace the joy of movement. Start with short walks and gradually increase duration and intensity as fitness improves. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen. Read our resources below to explore this topic further.Full story -
3 April 2024
What is inflammatory bowel disease?
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, is a term for two conditions (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis) that are characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and impacts 1 in 140 Canadians. While commonly confused with irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, it is very different. In this 2-minute video, Dr. Neeraj Narula, a gastroenterologist, explains what IBD is and what is known about what might cause it.Full story -
3 April 2024
April is National Oral Health Month: Promoting healthy smiles
April marks the start of National Oral Health Month, a good time to check in on your teeth and gums. Oral health is an important part of our overall well-being, and as we get older, our teeth and gums undergo more changes, which means they require more care. Common challenges include missing teeth, gum/periodontal disease, root decay, and dry mouth (caused by medications).Full story -
27 March 2024
Caring for the psychological health of caregivers: Acceptance and commitment therapy
Are you a caregiver for someone with a chronic health condition? Acceptance and commitment therapy (aka ACT) can hold benefits for your psychological health.Full story -
27 March 2024
Reducing alcohol consumption for older adults
For many older adults, alcohol may have played a significant role in social gatherings, celebrations, and even relaxation. However, as Canada’s alcohol consumption guidelines have changed, it’s important to re-evaluate our relationship with alcohol, especially as we age.Full story -
20 March 2024
Building financial stability and well-being: Making the most of tax season
During tax season, older adults should review finances, access available resources, and plan for the future to ensure financial stability and well-being. Utilize tools like the Benefits Finder, consider future needs, and create a budget that aligns your needs and financial circumstances.Full story -
20 March 2024
Brain Health Awareness Month: 5 things you can do to optimize your brain health
Healthy aging involves supporting both the body and the brain. Your lifestyle can influence the cognitive changes that come with age – giving you the power to keep your mind healthy! Here are five things you can do to boost your brain health and support healthy agingFull story -
13 March 2024
How do different breathing exercises for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease compare?
Breathe easier! Research highlights which breathing exercises can be beneficial for people living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.Full story -
13 March 2024
Navigating the fog: World Delirium Awareness Day sheds light on a hidden challenge
In a world buzzing with technological advancements and medical breakthroughs, silent battles are still being fought within healthcare facilities' corridors. One such often-overlooked challenge is delirium, a medical condition that affects millions around the globe. March 13th marked World Delirium Awareness Day, a day to shed light on this often misunderstood and underdiagnosed condition.Full story -
6 March 2024
Finding success with non-drug strategies: 3 common diseases and conditions that can benefit
Research points to various diseases and conditions that can benefit from non-drug strategies.Full story -
4 March 2024
It’s Music Therapy Month: The harmonious benefits of music
March is Music Therapy Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the many benefits of music therapy for people of all ages and abilities, including older adults. Given the deep connection that most of us have with music, it should be no surprise that researchers worldwide continue to investigate music's therapeutic benefits. Music can unlock emotions and memories, help ease hospital stays, improve exercise and walking routines and contribute to our overall well-being.Full story -
28 February 2024
Beyond longevity, what are the indicators of successful aging
Discover the true essence of successful aging beyond the conventional metrics as researchers emphasize the subjective perspectives of older adults. A review including the opinions of more than 9,000 older adults highlighted psychological and physical well-being, social connections, and adaptability as key contributors, challenging the notion that longevity alone defines successful aging.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.
