McMaster Optimal Aging Portal
At WSAC, we’re committed to connecting our community with trusted, evidence-based resources that support healthy aging. That’s why we’re sharing the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal—a free, research-driven website designed to help older adults, caregivers, and health professionals make informed decisions about health and well-being.
Looking for credible, evidence-based information to help you age well and manage your health? The McMaster Optimal Aging Portal is a free online resource for seniors, caregivers, and health professionals.
Explore trustworthy guidance on:
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Exercise, nutrition, and healthy aging tips
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Common health conditions and mental health
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Caregiving and healthcare resources
Latest Updates
Free Webinar: Strength Training & Protein for Healthy Aging
Tuesday, September 24 | 7:00 p.m. | Online
The McMaster Optimal Aging Portal invites you to a one-hour webinar with Dr. Stuart Phillips, Professor of Kinesiology and leading researcher in muscle health. Learn how strength training and proper protein intake can help older adults maintain muscle, improve mobility, and support overall well-being.
This session offers evidence-based tips and practical strategies for staying active and confident as you age—perfect whether you’re new to strength training or want guidance on protein needs.
Hosted by Dr. Anthony Levinson, this talk is part of the Optimal Aging Portal Webinar Series. All sessions are recorded and archived for future viewing.
Video Posts
All video posts feature McMaster experts discussing a wide range of topics related to healthy aging.
Video Post 01: Opioids and aging: What you need to know
Opioids are potent drugs used to manage pain, but they come with significant risks, especially for older adults. Learn about the potential dangers, including side effects and the risk of opioid use disorder with a 3-minute video featuring Dr. James MacKillop. Then read on to explore effective non-medication treatments to manage chronic pain.
Video Post 02: Move better with arthritis—Simple exercises for your hips and knees
Discover which targeted therapeutic exercises can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support joint health for those living with hip or knee osteoarthritis. This short video guides you through easy-to-follow movements that can be easily integrated into your daily routine—no equipment required. Plus, download a free copy of the exercises to use at home! Learn what neuromuscular training is all about.
Video Post 03: Is it normal aging or mild cognitive impairment?
Understanding the difference between normal aging and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is crucial for recognizing when cognitive changes may require attention. Learn more and watch a webinar recording where Drs. Anthony Levinson and Richard Sztramko provide valuable insights into these distinctions, the risk factors, and strategies for managing cognitive health.
Blog Posts
All blog posts are written by trusted experts to inform and inspire healthy aging, using scientific evidence to provide credible insights on important topics and common conditions affecting seniors’ health.
Blog Post 01: Can traditional Chinese exercises boost our mental health?
Tai Chi and Qigong! Research showcases the effect of traditional Chinese exercises on symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Blog Post 02: Linking sensory loss to cognitive decline
Are sensory loss and cognitive decline linked? Find out what the research has to say!
Blog Post 03 Linking cognition and mobility
Research highlights the benefits of exercise for our body and mind! Don’t miss tips and tricks on how to get and stay active.
Hitting the Headlines
When aging topics hit the headlines, the portal shares the best available related research evidence.
Headline 01: World Alzheimer’s Month: Raising awareness and supporting brain health
Every September, World Alzheimer’s Month brings global attention to Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. This annual campaign, led by Alzheimer’s Disease International, encourages people, communities, and organizations to come together to improve awareness, reduce stigma, and support those living with memory loss.
Headline 02: Taking care of you: Celebrating International Self-Care Day
July 24 is International Self-Care Day—a reminder that caring for your health and well-being is something to be practiced every day, not just once a year. For older adults, self-care plays a vital role in maintaining independence, managing chronic conditions, and supporting emotional well-being.
Headline 03: Financial Literacy—A great investment in healthy aging
As we age, our financial needs and responsibilities evolve. From managing retirement income to planning for healthcare expenses, being financially literate can make a big difference in your quality of life and peace of mind.
E-Learning
Do you have a lifelong learning mindset? If yes, explore this collection of lessons on mental health, exercise and mobility, brain health, and the newest topic, Cannabis and Older Adults. Most lessons can be completed in 15 minutes, and your progress is saved so you can easily return to where you left off. Stay healthy, active and engaged with these interactive lessons and resources!
Micro-Learning
Learn something new in just a few minutes each week with our free email-based micro-learning series.
Check back regularly for updates!
