• 16 February 2022

    Dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis? An itch by any other name

    Seborrheic dermatitis is a common rash characterized by redness, scaling or flaking, or itching. It mainly affects the skin on the scalp (as dandruff), face, chest and joints. When adults get seborrheic dermatitis, the condition can come and go for the rest of their life. Flare-ups are common with weather changes, and other factors such as stress can also be a trigger. Proper treatment can reduce flare-ups and bring relief. In this video, Dr. Hermenio Lima talks about the different causes and treatment options for seborrheic dermatitis.
    Full story
  • 9 February 2022

    The other side of the screen

    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.
    Full story
  • 8 February 2022

    Heart health: Separating fact from fiction

    February is heart month in Canada, a time to raise awareness around the importance of cardiovascular health and the things that can impact it. We separate fact from fiction to help you identify the evidence-based approaches you can take.
    Full story
  • 2 February 2022

    Upping fruit and veggie consumption to get blood pressure down: What’s the case for plant-based diets?

    If you’re looking to lower your blood pressure through lifestyle changes, pay attention to your diet. Research shows that a diet of mostly plant-based foods may be beneficial, but careful consideration is needed to find the one that is best for you.
    Full story
  • 2 February 2022

    Vitamin D: Should I be taking a supplement?

    Vitamin D plays an important role in many functions of your body. Getting a healthy, daily dose of vitamin D can be challenging and a common problem for many Canadians. In this video, Dr. Alexandra Papaioannou discusses the sources and health benefits of vitamin D, who should take supplements and how much.
    Full story
  • 2 February 2022

    World Cancer Day 2022: Strategies for cancer prevention

    In Canada, cancer is the leading cause of death, but the good news is that up to 50% of all cancer cases are preventable. You can reduce your risk by improving key lifestyle factors, including your diet, the amount of activity you do, and by eliminating harmful substances.
    Full story
  • 26 January 2022

    Love in the digital age

    The way we look for our soul mate has evolved in the last few years at the same pace as technology. Several platforms to find love have been created. The same is true for other stages of a couple's life cycle: whether it is to maintain a relationship or to regain autonomy after the dissolution of a couple.
    Full story
  • 25 January 2022

    5 mental health and self-care strategies

    The conversation about mental health and well-being is one we need to continue year-round. Strengthen your own mental well-being through using the above strategies and remember to check in with others. While we may be physically distant, we can remain emotionally close.
    Full story
  • 19 January 2022

    Turning on the tunes: 3 evidence-based benefits of music

    Do, Re, Mi, Fa, Sol, La, Ti, Do! Research lends support to the use of music for improving our mental and physical health.
    Full story
  • 19 January 2022

    When is it time to hang up the keys? Making informed decisions about driving

    When it comes to driving, it is not your age that determines your abilities, it is your health. Driving enables older adults to remain connected to their communities, maintain social ties, and access needed services, particularly in rural areas lacking public transit. Helping older adults stay safe on the road is just as important as ensuring they maintain their independence by driving as long as (safely) possible.
    Full story
  • 19 January 2022

    Insomnia: Are sleeping pills the answer?

    As we age, it is common for us to experience changes in our sleep. It may become harder to fall asleep, or you may wake up more often during the night and earlier in the morning. But what can you do when a good night's sleep is hard to get? In this video, Dr. Tricia Woo talks about sleep in older adults, lifestyle changes to promote good quality sleep, and the use of sleeping pills for insomnia.
    Full story
  • 12 January 2022

    Misinformation, disinformation and infodemics

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, people began to use the term ‘infodemic’ to capture the parallel between the rapid spread of the virus and the rapid spread of misinformation about both COVID-19 and measures to respond to the pandemic. But what can be done to counter misinformation?
    Full story
  • 11 January 2022

    4 things you can do to prevent slips and falls this winter

    In Canada, 1.6 million seniors fall each year, and more than half of those falls result in serious injuries. These 4 fall prevention strategies can help keep you steady on your feet this winter and beyond.
    Full story
  • 5 January 2022

    Can satisfying your sweet tooth with sugar substitutes help with weight loss?

    Sugar substitutes are widely available, but can they help those of us looking to lose weight achieve this goal? It turns out, modest benefits may exist for some, but not others.
    Full story
  • 5 January 2022

    5 ways to beat the winter blues

    Don’t let the winter blues get you down. Find an activity that is safe and accessible and make it a part of your daily or weekly routine. Maintaining physical and mental health is an important part of healthy aging.
    Full story
  • 5 January 2022

    Vegetarian diets: Will they help me lose weight?

    Maintaining a healthy weight is important to reduce your risk for many health conditions including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, mental illness, and cancer. In this video, Dr. Megha Poddar discusses vegetarian or plant-based diets and their potential impact on health and weight loss.
    Full story
  • 29 December 2021

    Dogs: Companions for life

    "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?
    Full story
  • 29 December 2021

    Mental health and the pandemic: What do loneliness, caregiving, and family conflict have to do with it?

    In this video, Dr. Parminder Raina discusses the recent findings on the mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on middle-aged and older adults. Hear how loneliness, caregiving, and family conflict are associated with a higher likelihood of depressive symptoms and how these symptoms persist and may worsen over time.
    Full story
  • 28 December 2021

    Optimal aging content highlights from 2021

    As 2021 ends, many of us are reflecting on the past year – the highs and lows, accomplishments, and experiences we had. For many, a new year also signals a fresh start and an opportunity to set new goals and intentions. As we say goodbye to 2021, we reflect on some of the content highlights from the past year that will help you continue to age optimally in 2022 and beyond.
    Full story
  • 22 December 2021

    ‘Brushing up’ on options for toothbrushes: Manual vs. powered

    Interested in how manual and powered toothbrushes compare? Both are good for helping to improve or maintain aspects of oral health, but powered toothbrushes may hold a slight edge when it comes to plaque removal.
    Full story

DISCLAIMER: The blogs are provided for informational purposes only. They are not a substitute for advice from your own healthcare professionals.