McMaster Optimal Aging Portal

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:

• Exercise, nutrition, and healthy aging tips

• Common health conditions and mental health

• Caregiving and healthcare resources

Video Posts

All video posts feature McMaster experts discussing a wide range of topics related to healthy aging.

Video Post 01: Cold or Allergies? What You Need to Know About Seasonal Allergies

Runny noses and watery eyes are a hallmark of spring for those with seasonal allergies. Still, late summer and early autumn can also be challenging times for those with environmental allergies. In this 4-minute video, allergist and immunologist Dr. Mariam Hanna explains what triggers seasonal allergies, how to distinguish them from the common cold, how they may change with age, and how to best manage and treat them.

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: From Sunshine to Snowfall — Ways to Manage Mental Health as the Seasons Change

SAD (seasonal affective disorder) can cause symptoms like sadness, low motivation, trouble concentrating, and loss of interest in activities you normally enjoy. The good news: there are proven ways to manage SAD and protect your mental health through fall and winter.

Blog Post 02: Five Fall Activities for Older Adults to Boost Well-Being

Looking for autumn activities for seniors? Explore 5 simple ways to stay active, connected, and support healthy aging in the fall season.

Blog Post 03: Scheduled for Surgery? 3 Things to Consider

From quitting smoking to hospital discharge planning, research outlines important discussions, changes, and decisions that should be had or made prior to surgery.

Hitting the Headlines

When aging topics hit the headlines, the portal shares the best available related research evidence.

Headline 01: Fall Back, Move Forward — Adjusting to the Time Change

As we turn our clocks back this weekend, many of us look forward to an extra hour of rest. But even a small time change can affect sleep, alertness, and mood—especially for older adults. Learn simple tips to help your body adjust and make the most of the extra daylight.

Headline 02: Technology for Seniors — How Older Adults Can Benefit from Digital Tools

From staying in touch with loved ones to boosting brain health, accessing information, supporting wellness, and enjoying entertainment, technology offers many benefits for older adults. With a few simple tips—like starting small, asking for help, and practicing online safety—seniors can confidently embrace the digital world.

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.

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Check back regularly for updates!