McMaster Optimal Aging Portal


Battling social isolation and loneliness from home
Making connections! Looking at the impacts of home-based strategies for improving social connectedness and loneliness.


Addressing your environment for falls prevention?
Clear walkways ahead! Research points to the effectiveness of environmental programs for falls prevention.


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.


Insomnia and sleep disorders: Understanding and managing these as we age
Sleep problems are common in older adults and can include difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia), breathing problems, or abnormal behaviours during sleep. In this webinar recording, geriatric psychiatrist Dr. Sophiya Benjamin provides an overview of both the causes and effects of poor sleep, exploring disorders and medications associated with sleep disturbances. You’ll learn about how sleep problems are assessed and diagnosed, as well as treatment and management strategies, including measures to promote good ‘sleep hygiene’, cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, and helpful resources.


Combining health and financial well-being
Health care insurance plans can vary across the country, and in some cases you may need to have a private insurance or pay out-of-pocket expenses to obtain certain services. Considering the financial insecurity that affects many individuals, how can financial literacy help plan, select and manage health expenses?


New year, new me? Strategies to help achieve your New Year’s resolutions!
Research points to strategies that can help you quit smoking, exercise more, achieve a healthy weight, and improve your sleep.