The Catalysts

Why do some older adults in their 80s, 90s and even 100s age well? What’s the secret to their excellent cognition? Is it genetics or environmental factors? Join us as we take a sneak peek into the world of the SuperAgers. In this episode, Western Professor Angela Roberts flips the aging problem on its head and looks at why some age exceptionally well. Discover what makes the Canadian cohort of SuperAgers extra special – a diverse group of older adults with exceptional cognition, an unquenchable thirst for life and adventure, and to top it all, resilience against time and adversity.

Tune in to learn how VR can transform the aging experience – from enhancing social connections to creating mystical experiences. In this episode, Western professor Paul Andrew Frewen shares insights from his research on virtual reality, psychiatry, and psychology. Discover how wearable VR technology is being harnessed to enhance mental well-being, promote social connection, revolutionize mental health interventions and create profound experiences for the aging population.

As Canada marks six years of cannabis legalization, we explore the shifting landscape of cannabis use among older adults, the fastest-growing group of consumers. In this episode, Western professor Jibran Khokhar, PhD, delves into the latest research on edibles, oils, THC, CBD, and even psychedelics, examining their potential effects on the aging body and brain. Are older adults use cannabis for medicinal purposes or it is just for recreation? Are the effects of cannabis real or could it simply be a placebo effect? Tune in to find out.

Tune in to explore the link between gait and cognition, and learn how the right dose of physical exercise and cognitive training can delay the onset of dementia. In this episode of The Catalysts, renowned Western University geriatrician Dr. Manuel Montero-Odasso, discusses the connection between falls, frailty and mobility issues, and cognitive decline in older individuals. Dr. Montero-Odasso shares how his research using motor biomarkers, dual-task gait testing and innovative interventions, such as the SYNERGIC Trials, is proving effective in delaying dementia in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. Tune in to learn about the vital role of mobility in aging and the promising strategies to maintain cognitive and physical health as we grow older.